Mercedes-Benz 1998 SL 500 Operator's Manual page 132

Soft Top
Clean soft top with soft top raised and
locked. Lower the soft top into the
storage compartment only if the top is
completely dry. If the top is kept in the
storage compartment for a lengthy
period, raise it and air it out with the
windows down about every 4 months.
Dry cleaning:
Brush top (always from front to rear)
with a soft-bristled brush.
Wet cleaning:
Brush the dry top. Wash with a mild
detergent and an ample supply of
lukewarm water by wiping with a soft-
bristled brush or sponge from front to
rear. Then rinse thoroughly with clear
water.
If only parts of the top have been
washed, wet the entire top and allow it
to air-dry before lowering it into the
storage compartment.
Wipe the rear window with a cloth
soaked with a mild, non-abrasive
detergent, rinse and rub dry.
Do not use sharp-edged instruments
for the removal of ice and snow.
Notes:
Never run the vehicle through an
automatic car wash with the soft top in
place or use a power washer to clean it,
as you may damage the soft top
material.
Remove bird droppings immediately.
The organic acid damages the material
and causes the soft top to leak.
In general, regular spraying or
cleansing with clear water Is sufficient
to keep the top clean.
Wash the top only when heavily soiled.
Light colored soft tops should be
cleaned frequently to prevent spots and
dirt from setting in, which could stain
and discolor the soft top material
permanently.
Caution!
Never use any gasoline, thinner, tar
and stain removers, glass cleaner, or
similar organic solvents to clean the
soft top, plastic window or wind
screen. They will cause damage
which is not covered by the
Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty.
Headliner
Soft top:
Clean with soft bristle brush, or use a
dry-shampoo cleaner in case of
excessive dirt.
Wind Screen
Use only water or mild detergent to
clean the wind screen.
Automatic Antenna
For trouble-free operation of the
automatic antenna, we recommend that
you clean the antenna mast
periodically.
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