Target Audience:
Owners of 1985 Mercedes R107/C107 SL-Class seeking to perform maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs themselves.
Value Proposition:
Provides factory-accurate, vehicle-specific information equivalent to dealer technician manuals, enabling cost savings and improved vehicle upkeep.
Uniqueness:
Vehicle-specific, not generic; direct replacement for official dealer repair manuals.
Organization:
All information in one easy-to-use PDF, eliminating the need to flip through multiple books.
Usability:
Printable pages for workshop use, ability to enlarge images, digital format protects against wear and tear.
Engine Management:
Detailed diagnostics, fuel system, ignition system, control systems.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, intake, exhaust, emission control, automatic transmission, manual transmission, clutch, driveshaft, differential, axles.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering (column and power steering), wheels, tires, brakes (hydraulic, parking).
Electrical And Electronics:
Starting and charging systems, wiring schematics, lighting, instruments, meters, audio/visual, horn, multiplex/CAN communication (for the era), supplemental restraint system, seat belts, engine immobilizer, cruise control.
Body And Interior:
Body repair, exterior and interior trim, doors, hood, engine hood, glass, mirrors, instrument panel, seats, air conditioning.
Auxiliary Systems:
Wiper and washer systems, door locks.
Maintenance:
Regular maintenance schedules, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, component testing.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all covered systems.
Disassembly And Assembly:
Detailed procedures for component removal and installation.
Adjustments And Calibration:
Procedures for setting clearances, alignments, and system calibrations.
Depth:
Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
Documentation Type:
Includes step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, and specifications.
Compatibility:
Windows (Vista32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac compatible.
Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip (free online).
Printability:
All pages are printable, allowing for enlarged copies of diagrams and images.
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF format)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF format, print as needed)
Engine Options 1985:
Likely includes 3.0L (183 cu in) inline-6 (e.g., 300SL) and 3.8L (230 cu in) V8 (e.g., 380SL) or 5.0L (305 cu in) V8 (e.g., 500SL) depending on market and specific sub-model.
Horsepower Range:
Varies by engine, typically from approximately 150 hp to over 230 hp for V8 models.
Torque Range:
Varies by engine, typically from approximately 170 lb-ft to over 280 lb-ft.
Fuel Injection:
Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS - Continuous Injection System) mechanical fuel injection is common for this era.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Octane Rating:
Premium Unleaded (e.g., 91 RON or higher)
Transmission Options 1985:
4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., 722.3) was the most common, with a 4-speed manual also available on some models/markets.
Manual Transmission Availability:
Less common than automatic, typically found on earlier R107 models or specific market configurations.
Automatic Transmission Type:
Hydraulic, electronically controlled (for the era) 4-speed automatic.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,400 mm (94.5 inches) for R107 Roadster, C107 Coupe (SLC) had a longer wheelbase.
Length:
Varies by model (e.g., R107 approx. 4,350-4,780 mm; C107 longer).
Width:
Approx. 1,790 mm (70.5 inches).
Height:
Approx. 1,300 mm (51.2 inches).
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by engine and body style, typically between 1,500 kg to 1,750 kg (3,300 lbs to 3,850 lbs).
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with power antenna. Aftermarket upgrades are common.
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was an option on later models. Cruise control was also available.
Connectivity Features:
None by modern standards; connectivity was limited to basic radio and power systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-10,000 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Major Service Intervals:
Comprehensive inspections and component replacements (e.g., spark plugs, filters, belts) recommended at intervals like 30,000 miles or every few years.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 15W-40, 20W-50) and API classification based on engine type and climate. Likely a high-quality mineral or semi-synthetic oil.
Coolant:
Proprietary Mercedes-Benz coolant or equivalent (e.g., 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol and distilled water).
Transmission Fluid:
Specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) as per Mercedes-Benz specifications (e.g., Type A, Dexron II).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Rubber hoses and seals (age-related degradation), climate control system components, electrical connectors, suspension bushings, exhaust system components.
Engine Specific Concerns:
Early V8 models could experience oil consumption; K-Jetronic system requires careful maintenance. Timing chain wear on higher-mileage engines.
Mercedes Benz Philosophy:
Renowned for engineering excellence, durability, and luxury.
R107 C107 Legacy:
Successor to the W113 'Pagoda' SL, the R107/C107 was a long-running and highly successful model, blending sports car performance with luxury touring.
Key Updates Pre 1985:
Introduction of V8 engines, updated styling, fuel injection advancements, improved safety features like optional ABS.
Production Period:
1971-1989 (R107/C107).
Manufacturing Location:
Sindelfingen, Germany.