🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

SL-Class

Chassis Codes:

R107, C107

Year:

1972

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Owners of 1972 Mercedes-Benz R107 and C107 SL-Class vehicles seeking to perform maintenance, diagnosis, and repair tasks.

Diy Mechanic Support:

Empowers owners to undertake repairs themselves, reducing reliance on costly professional labor and providing learning opportunities.

Accuracy And Specificity:

Distinguished from generic repair information by its vehicle-specific nature, providing dealership-level technical data.

Digital Convenience:

Delivered as a single, easy-to-use PDF manual, eliminating the need for multiple physical books and offering searchability.

Modularity And Portability:

Users can print specific pages or diagrams, allowing for targeted use in the garage or workshop without risking damage to the original digital file.

Dealership Level Information:

This manual is the exact same documentation used by dealership technicians, ensuring authenticity and accuracy.

Vehicle Specific Data:

Emphasizes that the information is not generic but specific to the R107/C107 SL-Class, providing exact repair procedures.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Maintenance, Engine, Control System, Mechanical, Fuel Service Specifications, Emission Control, Intake Exhaust Cooling, Lube, Ignition Starting Charging, Auto Transmission, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Transfer Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle Suspension, Tire & Wheel, Brake Control, Brake, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering, Air Condition, Supplemental Restraint System, Seat Belt, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper & Washer, Door Lock, Meter Audio/Visual, Horn, Windshield/Glass Mirror, Instrument Panel, Seat, Engine Hood/Door, Exterior & Interior, Electrical, Multiplex/CAN Communication

All Models All Repairs A Z:

Explicitly states coverage for all models and all repairs from A to Z for the specified years and chassis types.

Estimated Page Count:

Comprehensive (Exact count not specified, but described as 'everything you will ever need')

Manual Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Digital)

Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader and Winzip (or equivalent unzipping software) are required and available for free online.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed coverage of engine systems including fuel, ignition, cooling, lubrication, and emissions control for all applicable variants.

Electrical System:

Comprehensive coverage of the electrical system, including wiring schematics, component locations, and troubleshooting for various electrical circuits.

Bodywork And Trim:

Includes information on exterior and interior components, such as engine hood, doors, glass, mirrors, and trim pieces.

Suspension And Steering:

Covers front and rear suspension components, steering column, and power steering system, including alignment specifications.

Brake System Components:

Detailed information on brake calipers, rotors, pads, lines, master cylinder, and parking brake system.

Interior And Exterior Trim:

Guidance on removing, servicing, and reinstalling interior and exterior trim pieces, including door panels and upholstery.

Repair Procedures:

Complete step-by-step instructions for diagnosis, maintenance, service, and repair of all vehicle systems.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Specific guides for diagnosing and resolving common and uncommon problems across all vehicle systems.

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Includes diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, and diagnostic codes relevant to the 1972 SL-Class models.

Illustrations And Diagrams:

Extensive use of diagrams, illustrations, and wiring schematics to facilitate understanding and execution of repair procedures.

Component Rebuilding:

Likely includes procedures for rebuilding major components like the engine, transmission, and brake system parts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

Compatible with Windows Vista (32/64-bit), XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000, and MAC operating systems.

Download Speed:

Offered with 'Speed Download' for quick access to the digital file.

Printability:

All pages are printable, allowing users to print specific sections or diagrams as needed.

Image Scaling:

Allows users to 'blow-up' images and print enlarged copies of diagrams for better clarity.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF, no physical binding)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF, printing on user's choice of paper)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 1972:

Likely includes the M116 V8 (3.5L) engine for the 350 SL (R107) and potentially inline-six engines for other variants or earlier model years not explicitly excluded.

Horsepower Torque 350Sl:

350 SL (M116): Approximately 200-230 hp (net) and 211-228 lb-ft of torque (net), depending on market and specific configuration.

Engine Cooling System:

Details on radiator, coolant, thermostat, water pump, and fan operation for optimal engine temperature management.

Fuel Delivery Type:

Bosch D-Jetronic Fuel Injection system for V8 engines.

Fuel Pump Specifications:

Details on fuel pump operation, testing, and replacement for the D-Jetronic system are covered.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

Likely the Mercedes-Benz 4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., 0012601301) for the 350 SL.

Optional Transmission:

While less common for the R107 in its early years, manual transmissions might have been available in specific markets or for certain C107 coupe models.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Typically requires Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid.

Manual Transmission Details:

If manual transmissions were an option for the specific 1972 models covered, their servicing and repair procedures would be included.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Capacity typically around 8-10 quarts for the automatic transmission, but precise specification will be in the manual.

📐 Dimensions

R107 Wheelbase:

Approximately 96.7 inches (2456 mm)

C107 Wheelbase:

Approximately 106.7 inches (2710 mm)

R107 Length:

Approximately 177.7 inches (4513 mm)

R107 Width:

Approximately 69.5 inches (1765 mm)

R107 Height:

Approximately 50.4 inches (1280 mm) for the convertible.

R107 Curb Weight:

Around 3,600 - 3,800 lbs (1630 - 1720 kg) for the 350 SL.

Gvw Gvwr:

Gross Vehicle Weight and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating information will be provided, crucial for safe loading and operation.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Standards 1972:

Reflects the safety standards and technology of the early 1970s, with a focus on robust construction and basic safety features.

Braking System:

Four-wheel disc brakes with power assistance, a significant feature for its era.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seat belts in the front are standard, with lap belts in the rear.

Body Construction:

Information on the unibody construction and structural elements contributing to occupant safety.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System 1972:

Factory original AM/FM radio, possibly with a cassette player as an option or dealer-installed accessory.

Meter Audio Visual Systems:

Covers the instrument cluster (meters), any audio components, and other visual displays within the vehicle.

Cruise Control Availability:

Optional on many models, controlled via a steering column stalk or dashboard button.

Wiper Washer System:

Details on the operation, maintenance, and repair of the windshield wiper and washer system.

No Modern Connectivity:

No electronic connectivity features such as Bluetooth or USB ports; systems are purely mechanical and electromechanical.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles or as per manual recommendation, depending on usage.

Engine Oil Specification:

Refer to manual for specific grade, but typically SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 for V8 engines of this era, meeting MB 228.1 or equivalent.

Coolant Specification:

Typically a 50/50 mix of Mercedes-Benz approved antifreeze and distilled water.

Brake Fluid Specification:

Typically DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid is recommended.

Power Steering Fluid Specification:

Mercedes-Benz approved power steering fluid or Dexron II/III equivalent.

Common R107 C107 Issues:

Corrosion (particularly around wheel wells, chassis, and convertible top frame), fuel distributor diaphragm leaks (D-Jetronic), idle control valve issues, vacuum line degradation, and potential wear in suspension components.

Ignition System Wear:

Common wear items like spark plugs, ignition wires, distributor cap and rotor, and ignition coil are addressed.

Exhaust System Wear:

Information on potential exhaust manifold leaks, catalytic converter (if applicable by region), muffler, and pipe wear.

📚 Vehicle History

Mercedes Benz Luxury Roadsters:

Continues Mercedes-Benz's legacy of producing high-quality, luxurious grand touring roadsters and coupes.

R107 C107 Introduction:

The R107 replaced the W113 'Pagoda' SL and the C107 replaced the W111 Coupe, marking a significant styling and engineering update.

Styling And Engineering Updates:

Covers the transitional period and engineering advancements from previous Mercedes-Benz roadster and coupe generations.

R107 Production Years:

1971-1989

C107 Production Years:

1971-1981