SmartTop Module

**Woolly** · 12-27-2006

Anyone want a full piccy install on a RHD R171 - I got my module on Sat Morning (thanks Bill) - shall fit it in the next couple of days - if you want, ? I'll take piccies, whilst I fit it. Let me know.

**-1-** · 12-27-2006

Yup, that would be great. I know several have moved from the Piecha to the SmartTop. I like the additional features, but the bottom line is "up and down" and being a semi practical person, Ill keep the Piecha.

**etyu** · 12-27-2006

Step by step install piccies on a RHD R171 would be GREAT!!

**etyu** · 12-28-2006

A tip for those installing the SmartTop or the later issue Piecha module on LHD:

1. The module is wider by 5mm on each side and is harder to nest inside the wire loom/harness box. Use the continuation of the wire harness cover in the rear instead. This cover is almost square and the tab that holds this cover is towards the side of the car (the exact opposite of the elongated wire harness cover which is towards the midline of the vehicle). The cover is easy to lift (not all the way up but about 60 degrees or more)and this is where the wire harness bends towards the midline of the car, at the rear of this bend is enough space to tuck the varioroof module in and there will be enough length of wire to reach the CANBUS connectors. Scott (V8SLK) is familiar with this set up.

2. After removing the CANBUS cover, I shaved off the little tabs (the legs of the T) that go toward the inner surface at each side of the cover (this is the part that makes it difficult to pull the cover off causing others to even break the cover in half). Use a sharp hobby knife and be careful not to cut oneself and I used a small sander on the motor tool to sand off the irregularities and smooth out the inner surface. The second time was easy in removing the CANBUS cover, when I switched to the SmartTop module. One has to lift one side of the cover with moderate force from the finger and it clicks off. Small screwdriver not needed.

**etyu** · 01-09-2007

Quote:

Originally Posted by Woolly

Anyone want a full piccy install on a RHD R171 - I got my module on Sat Morning (thanks Bill) - shall fit it in the next couple of days - if you want, ? I'll take piccies, whilst I fit it. Let me know.

How did the install go(for RHD vehicles)? Were you successful?

**Woolly** · 01-10-2007

Quote:

Originally Posted by etyu

How did the install go(for RHD vehicles)? Were you successful?

Haven't got around to it yet

hopefully in the next week or so.

**beverage** · 01-10-2007

Yup pictures and a full write up will be useful, as I'm still planning on getting a module for mine, but was waiting for you to do you yours first

Just in case there were any issues ...

Fingers crossed for the weekend then!!!!

jimbobalooba · 01-10-2007

It's something I have been considering for a while now, but I'd probably wait till summertime anyhow.
I'm still weighing up the pros and cons
It would be cool to operate the roof whilst moving but in Scotland I don't know if its worth it because if you're gonna be driving with the hood down, you know at the start of the journey. I've got the key-roof operation so I'm still not sure.

The pics would definitely help me decide, thanks very much!

**Woolly** · 01-10-2007

Jim, you cant beat the pose value - sitting outside the village pub, with your car outside, click the button in your pocket and the roof goes down -not that I'd do that !! - I fitted a **** Bipes system on my R170, and I loved it.

**Woolly** · 01-10-2007

I've just been hit by the site sensor - I can't say **** - I've got to use the diminutive form of Richard !!

**Woolly** · 01-10-2007

Quote:

Originally Posted by beverage

Yup pictures and a full write up will be useful, as I'm still planning on getting a module for mine, but was waiting for you to do you yours first

Just in case there were any issues ...

Fingers crossed for the weekend then!!!!

OK, how does this sound - - - you order one, N4PWJ, orders one, then we have a 'mini meet' in the NW and all fit them together - if you order from this forum, they arrive within bout 4-5 days (as long as it's not xmas). - I'll bring my electronic tool kit !!

**beverage** · 01-10-2007

Quote:

Originally Posted by Woolly

OK, how does this sound - - - you order one, N4PWJ, orders one, then we have a 'mini meet' in the NW and all fit them together - if you order from this forum, they arrive within bout 4-5 days (as long as it's not xmas). - I'll bring my electronic tool kit !!

I like your thinking, I can't order till after payday (end of the month) and then I go away in Feb ... but all very do-able. Me and electronics don't always go hand in hand

N4PWJ - what do you say??

ryan.stephens · 04-06-2008

Did this RHD installation guide come off?

**snowbyhui** · 04-07-2008

Finally...Smart Top installed, after 2 days of work

The biggest issue that I had was with the big plastic cover that cover the CAN bus, almost spent an hour on it and eventually broken the cover latch, well it still goes back on and secure.

The other major problem was with the 12V Red wire. The installation says NOT to use the Thick one, but using the thinner one. Which I did and nothing happen after all is connected.

Then I found from another forum Benzworld.org and they have a much more detailed instruction listed, I wish I had read that before I went with the Smart Top instruction. It turns out that there is a third solid red wire, sort of middle size amount the 3 red wires. Connect the power and Whwow, what a magic!!

Here is the link that I found on Benzworld.org -> http://www.benzworld.org/forums/r171...ally-once.html

It is a long Thread, but definitely worth while to go over it for the detail before installing the smart top.

mtiede · 04-08-2008

I think if you search here you will also find at least one thread. I think I described my not so fun time doing the install. I also broke the black box (in more than one place

) and described what it takes to get the box open. I think I get too pissed when I work on something like that and problems come up. I find it easy to break things and sometimes words are said and objects fly

ryan.stephens · 04-08-2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by mtiede

I think I get too pissed when I work on something like that and problems come up. I find it easy to break things and sometimes words are said and objects fly

I know the feeling

**snowbyhui** · 04-08-2008

i did try the search on this forum, but couldn't find it for some reasons, probably didn't use the right combination of words

anyhow, the my fingers still hurts even just doing the typing... i know exactly what you had experienced

it is getting warm here in Toronto and sun is out today, time to enjoy the top down drive now.

afterall, it is all worth the effort!

**etyu** · 04-08-2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by snowbyhui

i did try the search on this forum, but couldn't find it for some reasons, probably didn't use the right combination of words

anyhow, the my fingers still hurts even just doing the typing... i know exactly what you had experienced

it is getting warm here in Toronto and sun is out today, time to enjoy the top down drive now.

afterall, it is all worth the effort!

Link: http://www.slkworld.com/general-modi...07-slk280.html

For removing the CANBUS cover:

Here's what I found to work easier: Insert two flat wooden coffee stirrers or flat wooden matchsticks to each side (narrow side) of the CANBUS cover so the locking tabs are lifted. Trim the length of the wooden inserts if necessary to the same height as the cover. Use masking tape to hold the wooden sticks in place. This will release the tabs that hold the CANBUS cover. Now gently pry off the CANBUS cover using a small flat head jeweler's screwdriver (extra small flat head screwdriver). Work from the middle of the cover where you will see 2 small slots,and slide the screwdriver towards one side of the cover. Once you release one side, it will be easy to release the other side.

After removing the cover, I use a motor tool (or a small sharp blade will work) to trim off the T-shaped tabs. This will make future removal much easier by just using the fingers.

Hope the above helps.

12-27-2006	#1 (permalink)
Woolly Founding Member #8 Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Co. Durham, UK Vehicle: 2004 SLK350 Other Toys: Cars, Bikes, Boats & Aircraft!! Posts: 972 Country: Thanks: 28 Thanked 26 Times in 16 Posts	SmartTop Module Anyone want a full piccy install on a RHD R171 - I got my module on Sat Morning (thanks Bill) - shall fit it in the next couple of days - if you want, ? I'll take piccies, whilst I fit it. Let me know. __________________ To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. 2005 BMW LT - 16 countries, 2 CONTINENTS & counting 2004 MB SLK 350 Andradite Green (6 speed manual] 1999 Ducati ST2 2003 Vauxhaul Vectra 1974 Triumph Bonneville 750 T140V 1937 Norton 500 single (all still current)

12-27-2006	#2 (permalink)
-1- Don Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Virginia USA Vehicle: SLK 55 ///AMG The MON55TER on the block Posts: 2,224 Country: Thanks: 54 Thanked 57 Times in 41 Posts	Yup, that would be great. I know several have moved from the Piecha to the SmartTop. I like the additional features, but the bottom line is "up and down" and being a semi practical person, Ill keep the Piecha. __________________ To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. *----------------1-----------------* --------SLK 55 ///AMG--------- THE MON55TER ON THE BLOCK

12-27-2006	#3 (permalink)
etyu Founding Member #2 / Ambassador Of Good Will Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Orange County, CA Vehicle: 2008 SLK 55 Posts: 5,279 Country: Thanks: 376 Thanked 277 Times in 168 Posts	Step by step install piccies on a RHD R171 would be GREAT!! __________________ *Eddy* To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. Pewter/Beige, PIII package, Airscarf, Hands-Free Communication System, Lighting package Designo Black Leather Cover on e-brake handle, ( To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. Bill T), SmartTop v1.0, Kleyman 3BFM (NoRegret Custom), Green Air Filters, *Mod. R170 ant., EuroClear sidemarkers w/PIAA PlasmaIon lamps, chromed front & rear turn indicator lamps, PIAA SuperPlasmaGTX front parking lamps, bilateral rear fog lamps enabled. Last edited by etyu; 12-28-2006 at 01:42 AM.*

12-28-2006	#4 (permalink)
etyu Founding Member #2 / Ambassador Of Good Will Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Orange County, CA Vehicle: 2008 SLK 55 Posts: 5,279 Country: Thanks: 376 Thanked 277 Times in 168 Posts	A tip for those installing the SmartTop or the later issue Piecha module on LHD: 1. The module is wider by 5mm on each side and is harder to nest inside the wire loom/harness box. Use the continuation of the wire harness cover in the rear instead. This cover is almost square and the tab that holds this cover is towards the side of the car (the exact opposite of the elongated wire harness cover which is towards the midline of the vehicle). The cover is easy to lift (not all the way up but about 60 degrees or more)and this is where the wire harness bends towards the midline of the car, at the rear of this bend is enough space to tuck the varioroof module in and there will be enough length of wire to reach the CANBUS connectors. Scott (V8SLK) is familiar with this set up. 2. After removing the CANBUS cover, I shaved off the little tabs (the legs of the T) that go toward the inner surface at each side of the cover (this is the part that makes it difficult to pull the cover off causing others to even break the cover in half). Use a sharp hobby knife and be careful not to cut oneself and I used a small sander on the motor tool to sand off the irregularities and smooth out the inner surface. The second time was easy in removing the CANBUS cover, when I switched to the SmartTop module. One has to lift one side of the cover with moderate force from the finger and it clicks off. Small screwdriver not needed. __________________ *Eddy* To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. Pewter/Beige, PIII package, Airscarf, Hands-Free Communication System, Lighting package Designo Black Leather Cover on e-brake handle, ( To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. Bill T), SmartTop v1.0, Kleyman 3BFM (NoRegret Custom), Green Air Filters, *Mod. R170 ant.*, EuroClear sidemarkers w/PIAA PlasmaIon lamps, chromed front & rear turn indicator lamps, PIAA SuperPlasmaGTX front parking lamps, bilateral rear fog lamps enabled.

01-10-2007	#7 (permalink)
beverage Founding Member Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Cumbria, UK Vehicle: R171 2005 SLK200 Kompressor Other Toys: Cars & Computers Posts: 103 Country: Thanks: 3 Thanked 5 Times in 2 Posts	Yup pictures and a full write up will be useful, as I'm still planning on getting a module for mine, but was waiting for you to do you yours first Just in case there were any issues ... Fingers crossed for the weekend then!!!! __________________ To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts.

01-10-2007	#8 (permalink)
jimbobalooba SLK World Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Glasgow, Scotland Vehicle: 2006' SLK 200 SE Other Toys: Bikes Posts: 42 Country: Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	It's something I have been considering for a while now, but I'd probably wait till summertime anyhow. I'm still weighing up the pros and cons It would be cool to operate the roof whilst moving but in Scotland I don't know if its worth it because if you're gonna be driving with the hood down, you know at the start of the journey. I've got the key-roof operation so I'm still not sure. The pics would definitely help me decide, thanks very much!

01-10-2007	#9 (permalink)
Woolly Founding Member #8 Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Co. Durham, UK Vehicle: 2004 SLK350 Other Toys: Cars, Bikes, Boats & Aircraft!! Posts: 972 Country: Thanks: 28 Thanked 26 Times in 16 Posts	Jim, you cant beat the pose value - sitting outside the village pub, with your car outside, click the button in your pocket and the roof goes down -not that I'd do that !! - I fitted a **** Bipes system on my R170, and I loved it. __________________ To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. 2005 BMW LT - 16 countries, 2 CONTINENTS & counting 2004 MB SLK 350 Andradite Green (6 speed manual] 1999 Ducati ST2 2003 Vauxhaul Vectra 1974 Triumph Bonneville 750 T140V 1937 Norton 500 single (all still current)

01-10-2007	#10 (permalink)
Woolly Founding Member #8 Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Co. Durham, UK Vehicle: 2004 SLK350 Other Toys: Cars, Bikes, Boats & Aircraft!! Posts: 972 Country: Thanks: 28 Thanked 26 Times in 16 Posts	I've just been hit by the site sensor - I can't say **** - I've got to use the diminutive form of Richard !! __________________ To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. 2005 BMW LT - 16 countries, 2 CONTINENTS & counting 2004 MB SLK 350 Andradite Green (6 speed manual] 1999 Ducati ST2 2003 Vauxhaul Vectra 1974 Triumph Bonneville 750 T140V 1937 Norton 500 single (all still current)

04-06-2008	#13 (permalink)
ryan.stephens Elite SLK World Member Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Exeter, UK Vehicle: 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML320 CDI Sport - Fully Loaded! Posts: 235 Country: Thanks: 10 Thanked 6 Times in 4 Posts	Did this RHD installation guide come off?

04-07-2008	#14 (permalink)
snowbyhui Senior SLK World Member Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Toronto, Canada Vehicle: 06 SLK55 Other Toys: Lexus 400h, Wii Posts: 199 Country: Thanks: 36 Thanked 43 Times in 23 Posts	Finally...Smart Top installed, after 2 days of work The biggest issue that I had was with the big plastic cover that cover the CAN bus, almost spent an hour on it and eventually broken the cover latch, well it still goes back on and secure. The other major problem was with the 12V Red wire. The installation says NOT to use the Thick one, but using the thinner one. Which I did and nothing happen after all is connected. Then I found from another forum Benzworld.org and they have a much more detailed instruction listed, I wish I had read that before I went with the Smart Top instruction. It turns out that there is a third solid red wire, sort of middle size amount the 3 red wires. Connect the power and Whwow, what a magic!! Here is the link that I found on Benzworld.org -> http://www.benzworld.org/forums/r171...ally-once.html It is a long Thread, but definitely worth while to go over it for the detail before installing the smart top.

04-08-2008	#15 (permalink)
mtiede Founding Member #7 Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Western New York Vehicle: 2006 SLK 350 Posts: 1,642 Thanks: 100 Thanked 55 Times in 45 Posts	I think if you search here you will also find at least one thread. I think I described my not so fun time doing the install. I also broke the black box (in more than one place ) and described what it takes to get the box open. I think I get too pissed when I work on something like that and problems come up. I find it easy to break things and sometimes words are said and objects fly

04-08-2008	#17 (permalink)
snowbyhui Senior SLK World Member Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Toronto, Canada Vehicle: 06 SLK55 Other Toys: Lexus 400h, Wii Posts: 199 Country: Thanks: 36 Thanked 43 Times in 23 Posts	i did try the search on this forum, but couldn't find it for some reasons, probably didn't use the right combination of words anyhow, the my fingers still hurts even just doing the typing... i know exactly what you had experienced it is getting warm here in Toronto and sun is out today, time to enjoy the top down drive now. afterall, it is all worth the effort!