Vehicle Segment:
Luxury Grand Tourer / Sports Convertible
Key Competitors:
Jaguar XJS, BMW 8 Series (E31), Porsche 911 (964)
Vehicle Highlights:
Iconic design, robust engineering, powerful V8 engine, premium interior, exceptional build quality
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and technicians with in-depth knowledge for effective maintenance and repair, saving time and money.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, diagnosis, timing, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel injection (Bosch KE-Jetronic)
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics, sensor testing
Transmission Automatic:
4-speed automatic (4G-TRONIC) diagnosis, repair, fluid service, shift control
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis and repair, caliper service, rotor replacement, fluid flush
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, wheel alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering linkage, steering box
Climate Control:
Air conditioning system servicing, heater core replacement, climate control module diagnosis
Electrical Systems:
Lighting, instrumentation, power windows, power seats, central locking, convertible top mechanism
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, trim components, convertible top frame
Instrument Panel:
Diagnosis and repair of gauges, warning lamps, and associated wiring.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, belt inspection, fluid level checks
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission overhauls
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems
Diagnostic Charts:
Flowcharts and tables for pinpointing faults
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
Includes procedures for interpreting diagnostic codes from the engine control unit.
Emissions Control:
Information on emission control systems and testing procedures.
Depth Of Coverage:
Advanced diagnostics, complete mechanical and electrical repair, system overhauls
Diagnostic Tools Required:
Specifies necessary tools, including specialized Mercedes-Benz diagnostic equipment for certain tasks.
Special Tools:
Details on specialized tools required for specific diagnostic and repair procedures.
Displacement:
5.6 Liters (5549 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
94.5 mm x 98.5 mm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch KE-Jetronic Electronic Fuel Injection with Lambda Control
Horsepower Net:
227 hp @ 4750 RPM (USA Market)
Torque Net:
320 lb-ft @ 3250 RPM (USA Market)
Acceleration 0 60 Mph:
Approx. 7.5 - 8.0 seconds
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 Octane or higher)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
90 Liters (23.8 US Gallons)
NHTSA Rating:
Not directly rated by modern NHTSA standards, but known for robust construction.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Airbags (standard for 1989)
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and integrated roll bar behind seats.
Seatbelts:
3-point front seat belts with pretensioners
Audio System:
Optional AM/FM/Cassette stereo system, often with upgraded speakers.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Antenna System:
Power-operated antenna for radio reception.
Climate Control Type:
Automatic Climate Control (optional on some earlier models, standard on 560SL)
Seat Adjustment:
Power-adjustable front seats with memory function (driver's side).
Convertible Top:
Fully automatic hydraulic convertible top with hardtop option.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Major Service Interval:
Consult manual for specific mileage intervals for spark plugs, fuel filter, air filter, and transmission service (typically 30,000-50,000 miles).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 15W-50 (depending on climate). Refer to manual for exact MB specifications.
Engine Oil Capacity:
8.5 Liters (9.0 US Quarts) with filter
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Spec 325.0 (Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze)
Power Steering Fluid:
MB Spec 236.3 (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Differential Fluid Type:
MB Spec 235.7 (or equivalent GL-5)
Differential Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 1.25 Liters
Common Wear Items:
Subframe mounts, engine/transmission mounts, vacuum hoses (degradation), fuel accumulator, idle control valve, window regulators, convertible top hydraulic lines.
Bossh Ke Jetronic Nuances:
Sensitivity to air leaks, fuel distributor issues, frequency valve failures, and sensor degradation can affect performance and idle.
Climate Control Challenges:
Ageing seals, refrigerant leaks, and control module issues can impact AC performance.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Renowned for engineering excellence, luxury, and durability since its inception.
R107 Generation:
The R107 platform was Mercedes-Benz's flagship roadster, produced from 1971 to 1989. The 560SL represents the final and most powerful iteration.
560Sl Introduction Year:
1986 (introduced in US market as an upgrade over the 500SL)
Production Years 560Sl:
1986-1989
Manufacturing Location:
Sindelfingen, West Germany