🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

SL-Class

Chassis Codes:

R107, C107

Model Years Covered:

1971

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Owners, DIY enthusiasts, and professional technicians seeking specific, dealership-level repair information for their 1971 Mercedes-Benz R107/C107 SL-Class.

Key Differentiator:

This manual is explicitly stated as vehicle-specific, not generic, mirroring the exact documentation used by dealership technicians, ensuring accuracy and comprehensive coverage.

Convenience:

Single, easy-to-use PDF manual, eliminating the need to search through multiple physical books. Printable pages allow for portability and targeted use.

Durability:

Digital format prevents the issues of greasy pages, tears, or lost paper manuals, offering a more resilient solution.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All Models & All Repairs A-Z

Manual Type:

Service & Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete service, diagnosis, and repair procedures for all engine variants.

Fuel System:

Detailed specifications and service procedures for fuel injection and carburetion systems.

Emission Control:

Procedures for servicing and diagnosing emission control systems.

Cooling System:

Comprehensive information on cooling system maintenance, diagnosis, and repair.

Lubrication System:

Detailed lubrication procedures and specifications.

Ignition System:

Ignition timing, component testing, and troubleshooting.

Charging System:

Alternator, battery, and starter system service.

Transmission Automatic:

Service, diagnosis, and repair for automatic transmissions.

Transmission Manual:

Service, diagnosis, and repair for manual transmissions.

Clutch:

Clutch inspection, adjustment, and replacement procedures.

Drivetrain Components:

Transfer case, propeller shaft, drive shaft, and differential service.

Suspension System:

Front and rear suspension component diagnosis, repair, and alignment specifications.

Wheel Hub And Bearings:

Service and replacement of wheel bearings and associated components.

Brake System:

Complete brake system servicing, including discs, calipers, drums, and master cylinder.

Parking Brake:

Adjustment and repair of the parking brake system.

Steering System:

Steering column, power steering pump, and rack/gearbox service.

Air Conditioning:

Diagnosis and repair of the HVAC system.

Restraint Systems:

Seat belt and supplemental restraint system (if applicable to the 1971 model year) information.

Cruise Control:

Service and troubleshooting for the cruise control system.

Wiper And Washer System:

Maintenance and repair of wiper and washer components.

Door Locks:

Service and repair for door lock mechanisms.

Instrument Panel:

Diagnosis and repair of gauges, indicators, and warning lights.

Seats:

Service and repair for seat mechanisms and upholstery.

Body And Frame:

Procedures for engine hood, doors, exterior trim, and interior components.

Electrical System:

Comprehensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical system, including wiring schematics.

Multiplex Can Communication:

Not applicable to the 1971 model year; this system was not present.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, and inspections.

Diagnosis:

Systematic troubleshooting guides for identifying and resolving issues.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for repairing all vehicle systems and components.

Rebuilds:

Detailed procedures for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds.

Adjustments:

Precise instructions for making various adjustments (e.g., carburetor, ignition timing, parking brake).

Specifications:

Provision of all necessary technical specifications for accurate repair and maintenance.

Depth:

Factory high-detail repair manuals providing complete instructions and illustrations, including wiring schematics and diagrams for complete servicing and repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Printability:

All pages are printable, allowing for enlarged copies of images and diagrams.

Binding Type:

Digital (PDF - no physical binding)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader and WinZip (free online)

Operating Systems:

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

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 1971:

Likely includes the M116 3.5L V8 and M117 4.5L V8, depending on specific regional market and model designation (e.g., 350 SL).

Horsepower Torque Estimates:

3.5L V8: Approx. 200-230 hp; 4.5L V8: Approx. 230-250 hp. Specific figures vary by market and tuning.

Fuel Delivery 1971:

Bosch D-Jetronic electronic fuel injection for the 3.5L, and potentially carburetion or early fuel injection for the 4.5L depending on market (though 4.5L typically introduced later with fuel injection).

Engine Code Examples:

M116 (3.5L V8), M117 (4.5L V8)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

Likely a 3-speed automatic transmission (e.g., 4G-Tronic / 722.1 series) was standard on most models.

Optional Transmission Type:

Manual transmissions were less common in the SL-Class during this era, but some markets or specific models might have offered a 4-speed manual.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Typically Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF). Specific Mercedes-Benz specification MB-Approval 236.2 or 236.7 may be referenced.

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Length:

Approx. 4700-4750 mm (185-187 inches) depending on exact configuration.

Exterior Width:

Approx. 1730-1750 mm (68-69 inches).

Exterior Height:

Approx. 1300-1330 mm (51-52 inches).

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2400 mm (94.5 inches).

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1500-1650 kg (3300-3640 lbs) depending on engine and equipment.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings Era:

Modern safety ratings were not prevalent in 1971. Focus would be on passive safety features of the era.

Active Safety Features:

Four-wheel disc brakes, power steering, responsive chassis design.

Passive Safety Features:

Reinforced safety structure, padded dashboard, collapsible steering column, standard seat belts (lap belts likely, 3-point might be optional or introduced later).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic analog radio systems were standard. Some models may have offered optional premium sound systems or power antennas. No digital displays or integrated navigation.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited to advanced braking systems (for the time) and power steering. No electronic driver aids like ABS or traction control were common in 1971.

Connectivity Features:

No form of digital connectivity (e.g., Bluetooth, USB) was available. Communication was limited to the vehicle's internal electrical systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions. The manual will provide precise intervals based on manufacturer recommendations.

Transmission Service Interval:

Automatic transmission fluid and filter service every 20,000-30,000 miles. Manual transmission fluid checks and potential changes at similar intervals.

Engine Oil Type:

Likely SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40, depending on climate. The manual will specify API service classification and viscosity for specific engine types.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. Manual will specify mix ratios and Mercedes-Benz approved coolant specifications.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual will specify exact type and change intervals.

Common Issues Era:

Potential issues common to vehicles of this era include rust (especially around wheel wells, sills, and A-pillars), fuel system degradation (e.g., fuel lines, pump), vacuum leaks, ignition system wear (points, condenser, spark plug wires), and aging suspension bushings. The manual is crucial for diagnosing and addressing these.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for building high-quality, durable, and technologically advanced luxury vehicles, particularly in the grand touring and sports car segments.

Model Evolution R107 C107:

The R107/C107 chassis replaced the W113 'Pagoda' SL. Introduced in 1971, it was a significant evolution, offering more robust V8 power, increased size, and updated styling. The C107 variant refers to the SLC coupe. The R107 platform was exceptionally long-lived, produced until 1989.

Production Start Year:

1971

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions Era:

While specific 'awards' in the modern sense were less common for individual model years, the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class consistently received acclaim for its engineering, luxury, performance, and durability, solidifying its status as a premier grand touring automobile.