Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, timing, lubrication, cooling system
Engine Management:
Fuel injection (Bosch KE-Jetronic/LH-Jetronic), ignition system, emissions control, diagnosis, sensor and actuator testing
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (4-speed 722.3/4-speed 722.4 variants common for this period), overhaul, adjustments, fluid service
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, differential, rear axle assembly, wheel bearings
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), caliper service, rotor replacement, fluid specifications, bleeding procedures
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, tie rods, lubrication, fluid specifications
Body And Frame:
Body construction, chassis, doors, hood, trunk, convertible top mechanism, interior trim, weatherstripping
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, wipers, horn, power accessories (windows, seats, mirrors), central locking
Climate Control:
HVAC system, air conditioning compressor, refrigerant, heater core, blower motor, climate control module
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), rollover protection system (ARP), seat belt mechanisms
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, fluid level checks, belt inspections, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Fault finding procedures, symptom-based diagnosis, electrical schematic interpretation
Component Removal Installation:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for removing and reinstalling major and minor components
Overhaul Rebuild:
Instructions for complete disassembly and reassembly of engine and transmission components
Adjustments Calibration:
Setting idle speed, ignition timing, transmission detent pressure, brake system adjustments
Depth:
Expert Level: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
5.0L V8 SOHC (later 32-valve DOHC variants were introduced in later R129 models, but early 500 SLs used the SOHC M119.960)
Displacement:
4973 cc (5.0 Liters)
Horsepower:
Approx. 322 hp @ 5500 rpm (SAE Net)
Torque:
Approx. 336 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm (SAE Net)
Fuel Injection:
Bosch KE-Jetronic (CIS-E) or LH-Jetronic electronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Oil Capacity:
8.0 Liters (8.5 US Quarts)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30 synthetic (check specific model year for exact recommendations)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 10.0 Liters (10.6 US Quarts)
Recommended Coolant:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Coolant (Glysantin G48 or equivalent blue coolant)
Length:
Approx. 4475 mm (176.1 inches)
Width:
Approx. 1810 mm (71.3 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1300 mm (51.2 inches)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2500 mm (98.4 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1760 kg (3880 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 2160 kg (4762 lbs)
Crash Test History:
N/A (Modern standardized crash testing was less prevalent in the early 90s; however, the R129 chassis was engineered for high safety standards of its time).
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags (standard)
Rollover Protection:
Automatic rollover protection system (ARP) – pop-up hoops deployed in case of rollover detection
Body Structure:
High-strength steel construction, integrated safety cage
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (ASR - Acceleration Slip Regulation) may be optional or standard depending on specific market and configuration.
Audio System:
Original Becker or Clarion premium sound systems, often with cassette player and optional CD changer.
Climate Control Type:
Automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control) with adjustable temperature and fan speed.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Memory Seats:
Power adjustable front seats with memory function.
Remote Keyless Entry:
Optional feature, introduced in later R129 models; early models may have central locking operated by key or interior button.
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 10,000 - 15,000 km (6,000 - 10,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first. Consult the manual for exact intervals.
Transmission Fluid Service:
Every 50,000 - 75,000 km (30,000 - 50,000 miles). Essential for longevity of these automatic transmissions.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Coolant Change:
Every 2-3 years or as recommended by the manual.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically around 50,000 - 100,000 km depending on plug type (e.g., copper vs. platinum/iridium).
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, ACEA A2-96/B2-96. Recommended viscosity: SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30 Synthetic.
Transmission Fluid:
MB Specification 236.1 or 236.2 (Dexron II compatible)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (FMVSS 116 DOT 4)
Power Steering Fluid:
MB Specification 236.3 (ATF Dexron II compatible)
Wiring Harness Degradation:
Degradation of insulation on engine wiring harnesses is a known issue due to age and heat cycles. Covered in the manual for inspection and repair.
தகM Actuator Problems:
Idle Control Actuator (ICA) can fail, leading to rough idle or stalling. Troubleshooting steps are detailed.
Convertible Top Hydraulics:
Hydraulic system for the convertible top can develop leaks or slow operation. Manual covers troubleshooting and fluid replacement.
ABS Sensor Failure:
ABS wheel speed sensors are prone to failure, affecting ABS and traction control function. Diagnostic procedures included.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, safety, and luxury in its roadsters.
R129 Introduction:
The R129 SL-Class replaced the highly successful R107 SL. Introduced in 1989 for the 1990 model year, it was a significant step forward in design, safety, and technology.
500 Sl Positioning:
The 500 SL was the flagship model of the early R129 range, featuring the powerful M119 V8 engine and luxurious appointments.
Manufacturing Location:
Bremen, Germany
Production Run:
The R129 SL-Class was produced from 1989 to 2001, with significant updates and model variations throughout its lifespan.