Target Audience:
Mercedes-Benz R129 SL-Class owners and independent repair professionals seeking detailed service and repair information.
Key Benefit:
Empowers Do-It-Yourself (DIY) enthusiasts to perform maintenance and repairs, significantly saving on dealership or independent mechanic costs.
Manual Purpose:
Provides practical, high-quality diagrams and instructions for servicing and repairing the Mercedes-Benz R129 SL-Class.
Competitive Landscape:
Competed with luxury sports convertibles such as the BMW 8 Series Convertible, Porsche 911 Cabriolet, and Jaguar XJS Convertible during its production run.
Cost Savings Potential:
Significant savings on technical and maintenance costs for the vehicle owner by enabling DIY repairs and informed service decisions.
Coverage Areas:
Traction Control, Climate Control, Transmission, Special Tools, Electrical Systems, Chassis, Engine, Bodywork
Page Count:
Not Specified (Digital Format)
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Compatible Devices:
All Versions of Windows & Mac, APP ISO, iPhone, iPod, Android, Tablets
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader or Web HTML Viewer
Print Quality:
Printable Pages
Payment And Delivery:
Secure payment processing via major credit/debit cards and PayPal, followed by immediate download access.
Access Method:
Instant download available immediately after secure payment, eliminating shipping delays and costs.
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical (M104, M119, M120), Engine Management (Fuel Injection, Ignition), Transmission (5-Speed Automatic 722.3, 722.5, 722.6), Suspension (Front Independent, Rear Multi-link), Brakes (ABS, Power Assist), Steering (Power Steering), Climate Control (Automatic Climate Control), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Component Location, Diagnosis), Body (Interior Trim, Exterior Panels, Convertible Top Mechanism), Traction Control (ASR/ETS), Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts)
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Servicing, Troubleshooting Faults, Component Diagnosis, Step-by-Step Repair Procedures, Overhaul Instructions, Electrical System Diagnostics, Climate Control System Servicing, Convertible Top Operation and Repair, Special Tool Usage, Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities and Specifications
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic adjustments and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, detailed diagnostic flowcharts, and component-level repair instructions.
Special Tools Coverage:
The manual explicitly mentions coverage of 'Special tools', indicating it will detail specific Mercedes-Benz or aftermarket tools required for various repair procedures, such as engine timing tools, suspension compressors, or diagnostic adapters.
Body And Trim Repair:
Includes repair and adjustment procedures for exterior body panels, bumpers, door mechanisms, locks, and interior trim components.
Wiring Diagrams Scope:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams are a cornerstone, covering engine management, lighting, power windows, seats, climate control, and the convertible top system.
Engine Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, component replacement (pistons, rings, bearings, valves, gaskets), and reassembly for all covered engine variants.
Diagnostic Flowcharts:
Includes systematic troubleshooting guides and diagnostic flowcharts for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and system malfunctions.
File Type:
Web HTML, potentially convertible to PDF
Binding Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Diagram Quality:
High-quality diagrams and illustrations are highlighted as a key feature, crucial for understanding mechanical and electrical systems.
Platform Compatibility:
Universal compatibility across major operating systems and mobile devices, ensuring accessibility regardless of user's hardware.
Engine Variants Covered:
Likely includes specifications for 6-cylinder (e.g., M104 3.0L, 3.2L), 8-cylinder (e.g., M119 4.2L, 5.0L), and 12-cylinder (e.g., M120 6.0L) engines as fitted to the R129 chassis.
Horsepower And Torque:
Detailed specifications and torque figures for all covered engine variants will be present, enabling accurate performance tuning and repair.
Fuel Delivery Systems:
Covers fuel injection systems (e.g., Bosch KE-Jetronic, HFM/PMS) including component testing, pressure specifications, and injector diagnostics.
Ignition And Emissions:
Covers ignition system components (spark plugs, coils, distributors for earlier models), engine sensors, and emissions control systems, including catalytic converters and exhaust gas recirculation (if applicable).
Cooling System Components:
Details on radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan, and associated hoses, including flushing and replacement procedures.
Engine Codes:
Reference to specific engine codes (e.g., M104.940, M119.960, M120.980) to ensure correct manual sections are consulted.
Transmission Types:
Detailed coverage of automatic transmissions, likely including the 722.3 (4-speed) and 722.5 (5-speed overdrive) for earlier models, and the 722.6 (5-speed electronic automatic) for later models.
Features And Diagnostics:
Includes information on hydraulic control, torque converter operation, shift logic, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and repair procedures for these automatic gearboxes.
Active Safety Features:
Coverage of Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Acceleration Slip Regulation (ASR) or Automatic Slip Control (ASC), and potentially Electronic Stability Program (ESP) depending on model year.
Passive Safety Features:
Information related to airbag systems, seatbelt pre-tensioners, and roll-over protection systems (often integrated with the windscreen frame and pop-up roll bar).
Brake System Components:
Information on brake calipers, rotors, pads, master cylinder, brake lines, and ABS hydraulic unit, including bleeding procedures and component testing.
Comfort Systems:
Detailed coverage of the climate control system (including automatic climate control, HVAC blower, refrigerant circuits, and cabin filters), power seat adjustments, and the sophisticated convertible top electro-hydraulic system.
Electronic Systems:
Extensive information on the complex electrical architecture, including wiring diagrams for various circuits, ECU (Engine Control Unit) identification and function, diagnostic connectors, and procedures for using diagnostic tools.
Electro Hydraulic System:
Detailed troubleshooting and repair for the complex electro-hydraulic system that operates the power-folding soft top, including pump, cylinders, valves, and sensors.
Scheduled Maintenance:
The manual will detail recommended service intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, and other preventative maintenance tasks based on mileage and time.
Lubricants And Fluids:
Crucial fluid specifications will be provided, including engine oil grades (e.g., MB 229.1, MB 229.3), transmission fluid types (e.g., ATF Dexron II/III, NAG-1 fluid), coolant types (e.g., MB 325.0), brake fluid (e.g., DOT 4), power steering fluid, and differential oil.
Known Faults And Fixes:
Insights into common R129 issues such as convertible top hydraulic system leaks, MAS air flow sensor failures, ignition coil problems, catalytic converter issues, and suspension wear, along with diagnostic and repair steps.
Filter Part Numbers:
While not explicitly listed, a comprehensive manual would include essential filter part numbers, such as oil filter, air filter, fuel filter, and cabin air filter for various engine options.
Suspension And Steering Maintenance:
Procedures for inspecting and replacing suspension components like shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, ball joints, and steering rack or box.
Wheel And Tire Specifications:
Likely includes tire size recommendations and wheel bolt pattern specifications (e.g., 5x112mm).
Production Years:
1989–2001
Key Revisions:
The R129 saw significant updates throughout its production run, including engine revisions (e.g., introduction of the M119 V8 and M120 V12), styling tweaks, and upgrades to electronic systems like the convertible top operation and safety features.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
The R129 is a successor to the iconic W107 SL and shares Mercedes-Benz's reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and durability.
