🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

SL-Class

Chassis Codes:

R107, C107

Model Year:

1989

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Mercedes-Benz R107 and C107 SL-Class owners and independent repair shops seeking accurate, dealer-level repair information.

Luxury Segment:

Positioned as a premium luxury convertible and coupe, competing with other high-end European marques.

Advantage:

Provides vehicle-specific, factory-issued information, unlike generic aftermarket repair guides. Offers a comprehensive, all-in-one digital solution.

Content Detail:

Complete step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, and specifications for comprehensive repair and maintenance.

Usability:

Single, easy-to-use PDF manual. Printable pages allow for portability and focused use in the workshop. Searchable functionality enhances efficiency.

Diagnostic Flowcharts:

Inclusion of logical diagnostic flowcharts aids in systematic troubleshooting of complex issues.

Factory Documentation:

Directly sourced from factory service documentation, ensuring the highest level of accuracy and detail.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service, Repair, Maintenance, Diagnosis

Scope:

All Models and All Repairs A-Z

Estimated Pages:

Varies by specific vehicle sub-model and engine; factory manuals are typically extensive. High detail suggests hundreds of pages.

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (all variants for 1989 R107/C107), Fuel Service, Emission Control, Intake, Exhaust, Cooling, Lube, Ignition, Starting, Charging, Automatic Transmission, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Transfer Case (if applicable), Differential, Drive Axles

Chassis:

Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering Column, Power Steering, Brakes (Hydraulic System, Control, Parking Brake), Wheels and Tires

Body And Electrical:

Air Conditioning, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Seat Belts, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper and Washer System, Door Locks, Meter/Audio/Visual Systems, Horn, Windshield/Glass/Mirrors, Instrument Panel, Seats, Engine Hood/Doors, Exterior and Interior Trim, General Electrical System, Multiplex/CAN Communication (early forms may be present)

Body And Trim:

Detailed instructions for removal, installation, and repair of exterior and interior trim pieces, door panels, dashboard components, and upholstery.

Heating And Ventilation:

Detailed troubleshooting and repair for the HVAC system, including blower motor, heater core, evaporator, and climate control actuators.

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Checks and Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication Points, Inspections

Repair And Diagnosis:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all systems, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, component testing, adjustments, rebuilds

Diagnostics:

Includes diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) if applicable to the era's systems, wiring diagrams for troubleshooting electrical faults, and systematic diagnostic procedures.

Depth:

Factory-level detail, including component removal and installation, torque specifications, timing procedures, diagnostic flowcharts, wiring schematics, and system descriptions.

Wiring Schematics:

Comprehensive color-coded wiring diagrams covering all electrical systems, essential for diagnosing electrical faults.

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

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

Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader and WinZip (or equivalent decompression software).

Searchability:

PDF format is typically searchable, allowing users to quickly find specific information by keywords.

Zoom Capability:

PDF allows users to zoom in on images and diagrams for detailed inspection.

Hyperlinks:

Well-structured PDFs may include hyperlinks for navigation between sections and diagrams.

Printability:

All pages are printable. Allows for enlarged printing of images and diagrams.

Digital Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format allows for on-demand printing and binding).

Digital Medium:

N/A (Digital PDF format, not a physical product. Preserves original format from grease and wear).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Typical 1989 Engines:

3.0L Inline-6 (M103 engine family, e.g., 300SL), 5.0L V8 (M116 engine family, e.g., 420SL, 560SL). Exact engine depends on specific R107/C107 variant.

Hp And Torque:

Specifications vary significantly by engine displacement (e.g., 3.0L M103 ~187 hp, 5.0L M116 ~177-227 hp). Manual provides exact figures and torque curves.

Injection System:

Bosch KE-Jetronic (CIS-E) or similar advanced electronic fuel injection systems for the era. Manual covers diagnosis, calibration, and component replacement.

Valve Adjustment:

Includes procedures and specifications for valve lash adjustment, typically hydraulic lifters on M103, or specified clearance on M116.

Radiator And Fan:

Detailed procedures for radiator removal/installation, fan clutch testing and replacement, thermostat replacement, and coolant flow diagnostics.

Spark Plugs And Timing:

Specifications for spark plug types, gap settings, and ignition timing adjustments. Covers distributor and coil pack testing.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Part numbers for oil filters vary by engine. Manual will list correct OEM or equivalent part numbers (e.g., Mann Filter, Mahle).

Catalytic Converter:

Information on emission control systems, including catalytic converter function and potential issues, as well as exhaust backpressure sensors.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

Often equipped with a 4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., 722.3 or 722.4 series). Manual covers detailed service and repair.

Manual Option:

Manual transmissions were available on some models (e.g., 5-speed), though less common. The manual covers both automatic and manual variants.

Fluid Type:

Specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) type required, e.g., MB 236.2 or similar approved fluids. Manual will specify the exact type and capacity.

Removal And Installation:

Detailed instructions for torque converter removal, replacement, and proper installation to the transmission.

Clutch Replacement:

Comprehensive guide to clutch inspection, replacement, and adjustment for manual transmission models.

Universal Joints:

Procedures for inspecting, lubricating, and replacing universal joints on the drive shaft.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

2-door Coupe (C107) and 2-door Convertible/Roadster with removable hardtop (R107).

Wheelbase:

Approximately 96.7 inches (2456 mm) for R107 models.

Curb Weight:

Typically ranging from approximately 3,300 lbs to 3,800 lbs (1500 kg to 1725 kg) depending on engine and options.

Towing Capacity:

Typically not rated for towing. Manual would confirm any towing specifications or limitations.

Seating Capacity:

Typically 2+2 seating, with two primary adult seats and two smaller rear seats suitable for occasional use.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Specific crash test data for 1989 models may be limited by modern standards; however, the manual details the vehicle's safety structure and restraint systems.

Braking System:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard or optional on many R107/C107 models by 1989. Manual covers ABS diagnosis and repair.

Headlight Aiming:

Procedures for adjusting headlights to ensure proper beam pattern and road illumination.

Restraint System:

Seat belts (three-point front, two-point rear), potentially optional driver-side airbag on later models. Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) diagnosis covered.

Body Structure:

Reinforced A-pillars, crumple zones, and safety cage structure designed for the era. Manual details body panel replacement and structural integrity checks.

Fuel Tank Protection:

Details on the fuel tank's design and mounting for enhanced safety in the event of an impact.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-equipped Becker Grand Prix or similar premium audio systems of the era. Manual covers speaker replacement, head unit repair, and antenna systems.

Power Antenna:

Operation and repair of the power-operated antenna system.

Speaker Configuration:

Details on the number and location of speakers within the cabin for optimal audio performance.

Cruise Control:

Electronic cruise control system. Manual details its operation, diagnosis, and repair of actuators and control modules.

Windshield Wipers:

Diagnosis and repair of wiper motor, linkage, and control systems. Wiper blade replacement instructions.

Multiplex Communication:

While not CAN bus as we know it today, the manual details the vehicle's proprietary electronic control units and communication networks for systems like ABS and engine management.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Manual provides detailed guidance.

Brake Fluid Change:

Recommended every 2 years to prevent moisture absorption and corrosion. Manual provides bleeding procedures.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended typically every 30,000-50,000 miles (50,000-80,000 km). Manual provides precise intervals and procedures.

Engine Oil:

Specific API service classification and viscosity grade required, e.g., SAE 15W-40 or 10W-30 API SG or higher. Manual specifies exact MB approval.

Coolant:

Specific mixture of antifreeze and water (typically 50/50), using MB-approved coolant. Manual details capacity and type.

Power Steering Fluid:

Specific hydraulic fluid type. Manual details the correct fluid and capacity for the power steering system.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid specification, depending on the ABS system. Manual will specify the correct type and MB approval.

Common Wear Items:

Subframe mount wear, fuel distributor diaphragm issues (CIS-E), climate control actuator problems, vacuum line degradation, rust in common areas (wheel wells, sills). Manual provides diagnostic steps for these.

Engine Mounts:

Hydraulic engine mounts can degrade over time, leading to increased vibration. Manual provides replacement procedures.

📚 Vehicle History

Mercedes Legacy:

The SL-Class represents Mercedes-Benz's long-standing tradition of building luxurious, high-performance grand tourers with exceptional engineering and build quality.

R107 C107 Era:

The R107/C107 platform was produced from 1971 to 1989, making it one of Mercedes-Benz's longest-running chassis generations. The 1989 model represents the final year of production.

Key Updates By 1989:

Introduction of the M103 3.0L inline-6 engine, increased power for V8 models, ABS, driver-side airbag availability, and aerodynamic enhancements.

Engine Lineup Progression:

Evolution from 2.8L and 3.5L inline-6 engines earlier in the R107 lifespan to the more powerful 3.0L M103 and 4.2L/5.0L/5.6L V8s by 1989.

Production Years:

1971-1989. The 1989 model year features the most advanced iterations of the platform.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Prestige:

The R107 SL-Class was widely recognized for its luxury, build quality, and comfort, establishing itself as a premier grand touring convertible and a desirable status symbol.