CLK 430 Cabriolet (208.470) V8-4.3L (113.943) (2000)
Convertible Top Hydraulic Cylinder: Description and Operation
Soft Top Hydraulic Cylinders (Opening/Closing)
Soft top hydraulic cylinders
Location
One cylinder is located on each main soft top bearing on the right and left sides.
Purpose
Opening and closing the soft top by moving the soft top linkage.
Design
Double acting differential cylinders (pressure connection on rod and piston sides).
Function
When the hydraulic cylinder is pressurized on one side the hydraulic cylinder rod extends or retracts. The direction of motion depends on whether
the hydraulic pressure is applied to the piston or rod side. When pressurized on both sides (piston and rod sides) the cylinder rod extends, because
the force acting on the piston side is greater due to the larger active area. When the cylinder rods extend the soft top moves out of the soft top
compartment.