Segment:
Luxury Grand Tourer / Roadster
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, owners seeking to perform maintenance and repairs, professional mechanics.
Competitors Class:
BMW 6 Series, Jaguar XJ-S, Porsche 928.
Design:
Iconic Bruno Sacco design, robust construction, comfort for long-distance touring.
Convertible Top:
Power-operated soft top with a removable hardtop (SL designation).
Value Proposition:
Comprehensive factory data, detailed illustrations, lifetime access, no recurring fees.
Usability:
Searchable PDF format for quick information retrieval, printable for hands-on work.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing, lubrication system, cooling system.
Engine Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (Bosch K-Jetronic), fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, pressure regulators, cold start system.
Engine Ignition System:
Ignition system components, timing, spark plugs, ignition coil, distributor, electronic control unit (ECU).
Transmission Automatic:
4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., 722.3), transmission fluid, torque converter, valve body, shift linkage, seals, overhaul procedures.
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, universal joints, rear axle differential, half shafts, wheel bearings.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, disc brakes (front and rear), brake pads, rotors, calipers, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS (if equipped), parking brake.
Suspension:
Front independent suspension (double wishbone), rear independent suspension (multi-link), shock absorbers, coil springs, anti-roll bars, bushings, steering knuckle.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gearbox, steering column, tie rods, power steering pump, fluid, troubleshooting.
Electrical System:
12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting system, power windows, power seats, climate control.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, convertible top mechanism, chassis components, rust prevention, trim.
Climate Control:
Air conditioning system (R12), heating system, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, refrigerant, controls.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush.
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake system overhaul, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, body panel repair, convertible top repair.
Troubleshooting Procedures:
Step-by-step diagnostic guides for common and complex issues, symptom-based troubleshooting.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Component testing, electrical system diagnostics using multimeter and oscilloscopes (general principles applicable), fuel system pressure testing.
Adjustment Procedures:
Valve adjustment (if applicable), idle speed adjustment, ignition timing adjustment, suspension alignment specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Detail Level:
Highly detailed with step-by-step instructions, exploded diagrams, and photographic illustrations.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for exact recommendation).
Transmission Fluid Service:
Check fluid level regularly. Fluid and filter change recommended every 30,000-50,000 miles or as per manual.
Coolant Service:
Flush and refill coolant every 2-3 years.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 15W-40, 20W-50 depending on climate and spec). Modern synthetic oils meeting MB 229.1 or higher are generally suitable.
Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent) is commonly used for this era's 722.3 transmission. Manual specifies MB fluid type. Consult manual for exact MB spec number.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Use a Type 22 (blue) Mercedes-Benz coolant or equivalent.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (consult manual for specific MB specification).
Power Steering Fluid:
MB Power Steering Fluid (or Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid).
Engine Stalling Idle:
Issues with the K-Jetronic fuel system (e.g., air leaks, faulty warm-up regulator, distributor issues) can cause rough idle or stalling.
Cooling System:
Radiator leaks, failing water pump, thermostat issues, and aged hoses are common.
Electrical Components:
Aged wiring harnesses, failing relays, and contact issues in switches and connectors can lead to intermittent problems.
Convertible Top Mechanism:
Hydraulic leaks or failures in the convertible top actuators and pump system.
Suspension Wear:
Worn ball joints, control arm bushings, and tie rod ends can affect steering and ride quality.
