Vehicle Segment:
Luxury Grand Tourer Convertible
Target Audience:
Owners and independent repair shops specializing in high-end European vehicles.
Key Competitors:
Porsche 911 Carrera Targa, BMW 8 Series Convertible, Jaguar XJS Convertible.
Vehicle Prestige:
Represents a pinnacle of automotive engineering and luxury from its era.
Manual Value:
Essential for maintaining the complex and often problematic hydraulic soft top system.
Primary Focus:
Hydraulic system, specifically soft top bow removal
Related Systems:
Convertible top mechanism, hydraulic pumps, actuators, lines, reservoirs, electrical controls for top operation
Estimated Pages:
75-125 (typical for specific hydraulic component manuals)
Type:
Specialized Repair Manual / Technical Bulletin
Hydraulic System:
Detailed coverage of the electro-hydraulic soft top system, including all components and their functions.
Convertible Top Mechanism:
Operation, maintenance, and repair of the entire power convertible top assembly, including bows, linkages, and seals.
Electrical Controls:
Wiring diagrams, switch functions, relay assignments, and troubleshooting for the soft top's electronic control unit.
Component Removal Installation:
Step-by-step instructions for removing and installing hydraulic cylinders, actuators, and related components.
Hydraulic Fluid Service:
Procedures for checking, topping off, and replacing hydraulic fluid, including bleeding the system.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common soft top malfunctions, including leaks, slow operation, and complete failure.
Adjustment And Alignment:
Procedures for adjusting and aligning the soft top mechanism for proper sealing and operation.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic steps, including pressure testing and electrical continuity checks.
Repair Complexity:
Covers complex repairs and component overhauls of the hydraulic system.
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Detailed exploded views, schematics, and component illustrations for clarity.
Specification Detail:
Includes specific torque values, clearances, and component tolerances where applicable.
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable PDF, allowing for quick information retrieval.
Digital Quality:
High-resolution scans suitable for printing specific pages or sections.
Physical Format:
Not applicable (provided on CD-ROM)
Physical Format:
Not applicable (provided on CD-ROM)
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (722.6 '5G-Tronic' optional, but standard on later models)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Automatic (722.6 '5G-Tronic')
Transmission Fluid:
MB Spec 236.10 or 236.12 Automatic Transmission Fluid
Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 8 liters (17 US pints) for a complete change
NHTSA Rating:
Not explicitly rated under modern NHTSA standards, but built to high safety standards of the era.
Traction Control:
ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Airbags, Rollover protection system (pop-up roll bar)
Seatbelts:
Automatic Seatbelt Tensioners
Audio System:
Bose premium sound system with cassette player and CD changer provisions.
Climate Control:
Automatic Climate Control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control)
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Antenna:
Power-retractable antenna.
Seats:
Electrically adjustable heated front seats with memory function.
Mirrors:
Auto-dimming rearview mirror, heated and power-adjustable side mirrors.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific advice).
Hydraulic Fluid Check:
Inspect for leaks and level at every service; recommended replacement/flush interval typically 60,000 miles or as per manual.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 Synthetic (MB Spec 229.5)
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Genuine Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., ZEREX G-05)
Hydraulic Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid (consult manual for exact MB part number).
Power Steering Fluid:
MB Spec 231.1 Power Steering Fluid
Soft Top Hydraulics:
Common issues include leaks in cylinders and hoses, pump failure, and actuator failure due to age and fluid degradation. This manual directly addresses these.
Wiring Harness:
Degradation of the wiring harness insulation can lead to electrical gremlins, including soft top malfunctions.
Mas Air Flow Sensor:
Can become dirty or fail, affecting engine performance and fuel economy.
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering excellence, and performance.
R129 Generation:
The R129 SL was introduced in 1989 as the successor to the R107. It was known for its advanced technology, safety, and elegant design.
1997 Updates:
The 1997 model year continued the evolution of the R129, with refinements in engine management and electronic systems. The V8 engine remained a staple.
Production Years R129:
1989-2001
Manufacturing Location:
Bremen, Germany
Automotive Press:
Consistently praised by automotive press for its blend of performance, luxury, and open-air driving experience. Often cited as a benchmark luxury convertible.
Reliability Perception:
While complex, Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era were generally well-regarded for build quality. However, the hydraulic soft top system is known for requiring specialized maintenance.
