🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

SL-Class

Chassis Code:

R129

Generation Code:

R129

Generation Years:

1989-2001

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Do-it-yourselfers and experienced mechanics seeking comprehensive repair and maintenance information.

Value Proposition:

Inexpensive way to keep your vehicle working properly, detailed illustrations, diagrams, wiring schematics, and step-by-step instructions.

Delivery:

Instant Download

Visual Aids:

Hundreds of photos and illustrations, exploded diagrams, drawings

Data Integrity:

100% complete and intact, no missing/corrupt pages/sections.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

All models and engines within the R129 SL-Class range

Page Count:

>8000

Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine Overhaul and Rebuilding, Engine Performance, Firing Orders, Serpentine Belt Routings

Brakes:

Brakes, Brake Servicing Procedures, Complete Torque Specifications

Suspension Steering:

Front End and Alignment Procedures and Specifications, Suspension

Transmission:

Transmission Removal and Installation, Transmission In-Car Servicing

Electrical Electronic:

Wiring Diagrams, Computer Diagnostic Trouble Codes, Computer Diagnostic Trouble Tree Charts

Body Chassis:

Sunroof, U-Joint and CV-Joint Service Procedures, Vacuum Diagrams

Climate Control:

Air Conditioning Service and Capacities

Maintenance:

Factory Maintenance Schedules and Charts

Repair:

Repair, Rebuild, Refurbish, Restore, Detailed Repair Procedures

Diagnostics:

Trouble Codes, Troubleshooting and Diagnostics

Timing Belt:

Timing Belt Replacement, Timing Belt Service Procedures

Depth:

Complete disassembly, detailed step-by-step instructions, diagnostics, troubleshooting, specifications, and repair procedures for all vehicle systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Printability:

Fully Printable

Binding:

Digital (PDF)

Paper:

Not Applicable (Digital)

Search Functionality:

Searchable text

Bookmarks:

Bookmarked

Software:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip

Operating Systems:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family General:

M104, M119, M120 (V8/V12 variants covered)

Tuning Potential:

Manual covers factory specifications for various engine outputs, providing foundation for diagnostics and repair.

Fuel Injection:

Bosch KE-Jetronic (early models), Bosch LH-Jetronic, HFM (later models)

Ignition System:

Spark plug replacement, ignition coil diagnostics

Coolant Type:

Refer to manual for specific Mercedes-Benz coolant specifications (e.g., G48 or similar)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-speed automatic (4G-TRONIC), 5-speed automatic (5G-TRONIC)

Availability:

No manual transmission options offered on R129 SL-Class.

Transmission Servicing:

In-car servicing, fluid change procedures, general overhaul.

Fluid Type:

Refer to manual for specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) specifications, e.g., MB 236.x

📐 Dimensions

Overall Length:

Varies slightly by model year/engine, typically around 4.5 meters

Wheelbase:

2455 mm

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1700-1900 kg depending on engine and options.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

While specific ratings for the R129 are not universally published in modern formats, its robust engineering and safety features were hallmarks of Mercedes-Benz engineering for its era. Manual covers associated safety systems.

Braking System:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Airbags:

Driver and passenger airbags, integrated roll-over bar (automatic deployment).

Seat Belts:

Automatic seat-belt presenters.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory premium sound systems (e.g., Bose), AM/FM radio, cassette player. Manual covers removal, installation, and basic troubleshooting of these components.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models, electronically controlled. Manual details diagnostics and repair.

Phone Integration:

Early cellular phone integration systems (optional) covered in the manual.

Power Soft Top:

Hydraulically operated convertible top system with complex linkages. Manual provides detailed repair and maintenance procedures.

Climate Control System:

Automatic climate control (optional on some models). Manual details HVAC system components and diagnostics.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Refer to manual for specific model year and driving conditions; typically 10,000-15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Refer to manual; often considered 'lifetime' by some interpretations, but recommended for periodic change (e.g., 60,000-100,000 km) for optimal longevity.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

Refer to manual for specific viscosity grades such as 0W-40, 5W-40, 5W-50 depending on engine and climate.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Common Wear Items:

Harness wiring insulation degradation (especially around engine bay), distributor cap/rotor, fuel pump, catalytic converter, window regulators, hydraulic suspension components (e.g., self-leveling suspension). Manual provides repair guidance.

Top End Overhaul:

Manual details procedures for cylinder head gasket replacement, valve stem seals, and general engine top-end rebuilding.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Philosophy:

Emphasis on luxury, performance, durability, and cutting-edge automotive engineering.

Generation Development:

Successor to the R107 SL, the R129 introduced significant advancements in chassis design, aerodynamics, and safety, including a stronger body structure and advanced suspension systems.

Production Years:

1989-2001

Manufacturing Locations:

Sindelfingen, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journalism:

The R129 SL-Class was consistently praised by automotive critics for its blend of performance, luxury, and build quality, often featuring in 'best grand tourer' or 'best convertible' lists of its time.

Engineering Standards:

Manufactured to meet rigorous Mercedes-Benz engineering and quality standards.