🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

SL-Class

Model Code:

R129

Year:

1997

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Owners of 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (R129) seeking to perform maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs themselves or provide detailed information to their mechanic. Also targets independent repair shops.

Manual Advantage:

This is the exact same manual used by dealership technicians, ensuring vehicle-specific accuracy and comprehensive coverage beyond generic repair guides. Digital format offers convenience and cost-effectiveness.

Unique Selling Points:

Vehicle-specific, dealer-level information, comprehensive A-Z coverage, step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, printable format, digital convenience, and cost savings compared to dealership service.

Owner Benefit:

Empowers owners to understand their vehicle deeply, perform routine maintenance, diagnose issues, and confidently carry out repairs, saving significant costs and maintaining the vehicle's integrity.

📋 Manual Details

Comprehensive Coverage:

Yes, covers all models and all repairs A-Z for the specified year and chassis.

Estimated Page Count:

Detailed page count not provided, but described as comprehensive.

Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

Operating Systems:

Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac OS compatible.

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip (both free online).

Download Speed:

Speed Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete service, diagnosis, and repair for engine mechanical, fuel, emission control, intake, exhaust, cooling, lubrication, and ignition systems.

Powertrain:

Covers automatic transmission, manual transmission (if applicable), transfer cases, propeller shafts, drive shafts, differentials, axles, and suspension.

Brakes:

Detailed information on brake control systems, hydraulic brakes, and parking brake systems.

Steering Suspension:

Covers steering column, power steering systems, suspension components, tires, and wheels.

Electrical Electronics:

Extensive coverage of electrical systems, including wiring schematics, lighting, instrumentation, power distribution, starter, charging system, engine control systems, supplemental restraint system (SRS), seat belts, engine immobilizer, cruise control, wiper/washer, door locks, meters, audio/visual systems, horns, and multiplex/CAN communication.

Body Interior:

Includes detailed procedures for engine hood, doors, exterior and interior trim, windshield, glass, mirrors, and instrument panel.

Maintenance:

Detailed maintenance schedules, fluid replacement, filter changes, and general upkeep procedures.

Diagnostics:

Includes diagnostic procedures for identifying and troubleshooting common and complex faults across all vehicle systems.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, adjustment, and complete repair of all major systems.

Troubleshooting:

Specific troubleshooting guides and flowcharts for various vehicle issues.

Depth:

Factory-level, highly detailed with complete instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, and specifications for technicians.

Description:

This is a complete service and repair manual, not a generic one. It is the identical resource used by dealership technicians for maintenance, servicing, diagnosing, and repairing the vehicle.

Specific Procedures:

Includes procedures for: engine removal/installation, cylinder head service, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension strut renewal, HVAC system diagnosis, airbag system service, electrical component testing.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

PDF. Compatible with Windows Vista (32/64), XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000, and Mac operating systems. Requires Adobe PDF Reader.

Printability:

All pages are printable. Allows for blowing up images and printing enlarged copies. High-resolution for clarity.

Binding:

Digital format eliminates physical binding concerns. Individual pages can be printed as needed.

Digital Paper Equivalent:

High-resolution digital pages suitable for printing on standard paper stock. No physical paper degradation.

Searchability:

PDF format allows for text searching, making it easy to find specific information quickly.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

The 1997 SL-Class (R129) was primarily offered with V8 and V12 engines. Specific engines for 1997 typically include the M119 4.2L V8 (SL420) and M120 6.0L V12 (SL600). The M119 5.0L V8 (SL500) was also common.

Sl500 Engine:

5.0L V8 (M119) - Approximate output: 322 hp @ 5500 rpm, 354 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm (Varies slightly by market/spec).

Sl600 Engine:

6.0L V12 (M120) - Approximate output: 389 hp @ 5200 rpm, 420 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm (Varies slightly by market/spec).

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) system with sequential fuel injection.

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline

Common Engine Codes:

M119 (V8), M120 (V12)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed automatic transmission (722.6 series 'NAG1' introduced in some models, but older 4-speed 722.3/722.4 may still be present in early R129s. 1997 typically sees the 5-speed).

Optional Transmission:

No manual transmission option available for the R129 SL-Class.

Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, adaptive shifting for optimal performance and fuel economy. Some models may feature 'Comfort' and 'Sport' modes.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 187.0 inches (4750 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70.7 inches (1795 mm)

Height:

Approx. 51.0 inches (1295 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4000-4500 lbs (1815-2040 kg), depending on engine and options.

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 7.4 cu ft (210 L) with soft top stowed.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

While specific NHTSA/IIHS ratings for the 1997 model year might be scarce in readily available public records, the R129 chassis was engineered with a strong focus on safety for its era, incorporating robust structural design and passive safety features.

Active Safety:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Acceleration Skid Control (ASR) on some models.

Passive Safety:

Driver and passenger front airbags, integrated roll-over bar that automatically deploys in certain accident scenarios, reinforced A-pillars, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed premium audio systems (e.g., Becker) with cassette or CD player. Options for Dolby Surround Sound. Integration with optional Bose sound system.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system.

Climate Control:

Automatic climate control with cabin air filtration. Dual-zone climate control may be an option.

Remote Keyless Entry:

Available with remote keyless entry and central locking system.

Seat Features:

Electrically adjustable front seats with memory function, heated seats, lumbar support.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Check the specific manual for exact recommendation based on driving conditions.

Major Service Interval:

Major services are usually scheduled around 30,000, 60,000, and 100,000 miles, involving checks and replacements of various fluids, filters, belts, and spark plugs.

Engine Oil:

API SG or higher; MB 229.1 approved synthetic oil, e.g., SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40. (Always consult the manual for the most precise specification).

Transmission Fluid:

MB Spec 236.81 or 236.10 for the 5-speed 722.6 transmission. For older 4-speed units, MB Spec 236.6 or 236.7. (Specific fluid type is critical).

Coolant:

Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., ZEREX G-05 or equivalent based on MB Spec 325.0), mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid. (Must be replaced periodically).

Common R129 Issues:

Hydraulic cylinder leaks (for soft top and roll bar), mass airflow sensor (MAF) issues, ignition coil failures, wiring harness degradation (especially for older models), ABS/ASR sensor faults, catalytic converter issues, window regulator failures, vacuum line leaks.

Air Filter Example:

Example part number for an air filter might be something like A 119 094 0802 or similar (specific part number for the exact engine will be detailed in the manual).

Oil Filter Example:

Example part number for an oil filter might be something like 000 180 2609 or similar (specific part number for the exact engine will be detailed in the manual).

📚 Vehicle History

Mercedes Benz Legacy:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing heritage of producing luxury grand tourers and sports convertibles, with the SL designation representing the pinnacle of automotive engineering, comfort, and performance since the 1950s (e.g., the iconic 300SL 'Gullwing').

R129 Lineage:

The R129 SL-Class, introduced in 1989, replaced the R107. It represented a significant leap forward in technology, safety, and styling, embodying a more modern and aerodynamic design while retaining the SL's core principles of luxury, performance, and open-top driving.

Production Period:

The R129 chassis was produced from 1989 to 2001. The 1997 model year is a mid-cycle iteration, benefiting from evolutionary updates.

Chief Designer:

Bruno Sacco

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Acclaim:

The R129 SL-Class was consistently praised by automotive journalists for its luxurious interior, powerful engines, advanced engineering, and superior ride quality, cementing its status as a premier luxury grand tourer.