🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

SL-Class

Chassis Code:

R107 / C107

Year:

1987

Manual Product Name:

1987 Mercedes R107 & C107 SL-Class Service and Repair Manual

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Owners of 1987 Mercedes-Benz R107/C107 SL-Class seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, as well as professional independent mechanics specializing in vintage Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

Value Proposition:

Provides factory-level, vehicle-specific repair data, distinguishing it from generic Haynes or Chilton manuals. Offers comprehensive A-Z coverage, ensuring all necessary information is present in a single, accessible digital format.

Manual Advantages:

Vehicle-specific (not generic), factory documentation, comprehensive A-Z repair coverage, digital format for easy access and printing, includes diagrams, illustrations, and wiring schematics.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Models:

All R107 and C107 SL-Class models for the 1987 model year.

Estimated Page Count:

Likely extensive, typical of comprehensive Mercedes-Benz factory service manuals for this era, potentially 1000+ pages.

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Major Systems:

Engine (M103, M110, M116, M117), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Emission Control, Intake and Exhaust, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Clutch, Driveline, Differential, Axles, Suspension, Steering, Brakes (including ABS if applicable), Electrical Systems, Climate Control (Air Conditioning), Interior and Exterior Trim, Bodywork, Instrumentation, Safety Systems (Seat Belts, Supplemental Restraint System - likely basic), Cruise Control, Wiper/Washer System, Lighting, Audio/Visual Systems, Power Accessories (windows, locks).

Repair And Maintenance:

Comprehensive step-by-step repair instructions, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, maintenance schedules, component removal and installation, torque specifications, fluid capacities and types, wiring diagrams, exploded views, and illustrations for all covered systems.

Diagnostic And Rebuild Level:

Factory-level detail, suitable for complete vehicle overhaul, engine rebuilds, transmission repairs, complex electrical diagnostics, and all routine maintenance. Covers 'A-Z' repairs as stated.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Printability:

All pages printable with high detail for diagrams and schematics. Ability to enlarge images.

Digital Binding:

N/A (digital format)

Digital Paper Type:

N/A (digital format), but implies high-resolution output comparable to original factory paper.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 1987:

Likely featured the 3.0L M103 inline-six and potentially the 4.2L M116 or 5.0L M117 V8 engines. The specific engine for a 1987 R107/C107 would depend on the exact market and trim level (e.g., 300SL, 420SL, 560SL).

Horsepower And Torque:

Specifications will vary by engine. For example, the 560SL (likely R107) typically produced around 227 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. The manual will contain precise figures for all available engines.

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS) fuel injection for most variants, or potentially later Bosch KE-Jetronic (CIS-E) with electronic control for some models. Manual will detail components like fuel injectors, fuel pump, fuel pressure regulator, and air flow meter.

🔧 Transmission

Automatic Transmission:

Typically a 4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., 722.3 or 722.4 series). Manual will cover inspection, service, and repair.

Manual Transmission:

While less common for North American market SL models of this era, manual transmissions might have been available in some markets. The manual's 'transmission' section will cover all variants fitted.

Transmission Control:

Hydromechanical control for automatic transmissions. Manual will detail shift linkage adjustments, fluid changes, and valve body servicing.

📐 Dimensions

Length Width Height:

R107 SL: Approx. Length 179.1 in, Width 66.7 in, Height 51.2 in. C107 SLC: Approx. Length 182.1 in, Width 66.7 in, Height 51.2 in. Exact figures will be in the manual.

Curb Weight:

Curb weight typically ranged from 3,400 to 3,800 lbs (1542 to 1724 kg) depending on engine and equipment. Specific weights for all variants will be detailed.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Safety:

As a 1987 vehicle, it predates modern standardized crash testing like NHTSA or Euro NCAP. The manual will focus on the vehicle's structural integrity, seat belt systems, and any supplemental restraint systems (likely basic driver airbag on later models if optioned).

Occupant Protection:

Three-point seat belts (likely inertia-reel), padded interior surfaces, collapsible steering column, reinforced cabin structure.

💡 Technology Features

Audio Visual:

For 1987, infotainment would typically include an AM/FM radio, possibly with a cassette player. Power antenna, speaker systems. Manual will cover troubleshooting and replacement of these components.

Cruise Control ABS:

Cruise control was a common option. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) may have been available on some models, particularly later ones. The manual will detail the operation, diagnosis, and repair of these systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Scheduled Maintenance:

The manual will provide detailed intervals for oil changes, filter replacements (oil, fuel, air), spark plug changes, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, and major service points (e.g., valve adjustments if applicable, transmission service). Typical intervals for this era might be oil changes every 5,000-7,500 miles, with more comprehensive checks at 15,000, 30,000 miles, etc.

Recommended Fluids:

Engine oil viscosity (e.g., SAE 15W-40, 20W-50 depending on climate and engine), transmission fluid type (e.g., Dexron II/III for automatic), coolant type (e.g., MB 325.0 coolant), brake fluid type (e.g., DOT 4), power steering fluid type. Specific part numbers and capacities will be listed.

Common Problems R107:

Potential issues for R107 models include rust (especially around wheel arches, jacking points, and trunk floor), aging rubber hoses and seals, wear in suspension components, fuel distributor problems (K-Jetronic), headlight vacuum leaks, and electrical gremlins due to age. The manual's troubleshooting sections will be invaluable for addressing these.

📚 Vehicle History

Mercedes Benz Legacy:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, build quality, and luxury grand tourers. The SL-Class represents the pinnacle of their convertible offerings.

R107 C107 Lineage:

The R107/C107 series succeeded the W113 'Pagoda' SL and was produced from 1971 to 1989. It was known for its robust build, comfortable ride, and V8 engine options, evolving significantly over its long production run with updates to engines, transmissions, and safety features.

Production Period:

R107/C107 production spanned from 1971 to 1989. 1987 models represent a late stage in the evolution of this platform.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Acclaim:

While specific awards for the 1987 model year might be difficult to pinpoint, the R107 SL-Class as a whole is widely recognized for its enduring design, engineering, and status as a luxury grand tourer, often celebrated in automotive publications and by collectors.