Luxury Segment:
The Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (R129) was a pinnacle of luxury, performance, and automotive engineering in its era.
Competitors:
Competed with other high-end grand tourers and sports convertibles such as the Jaguar XJS/XK8, BMW 8 Series (E31), Porsche 911 (993), and Ferrari models.
Aluminum Hardtop:
Standard retractable or removable aluminum hardtop for all-weather versatility.
Roll Bar:
Automatic rollover protection system (pop-up roll bar).
وماتIc Climate Control:
Advanced automatic climate control systems.
Advanced Electronics:
Sophisticated electronic management systems for engine, transmission, and chassis.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel injection (KE-Jetronic/MEC-Electronic), ignition, lubrication, cooling, exhaust, emissions control
Transmission Systems:
Automatic transmission (5G-TRONIC 722.6), manual transmission (less common for this era SL), clutch, driveshafts, differential
Brake Systems:
Hydraulic brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake fluid, calipers, rotors, lines, parking brake
Suspension Steering:
Independent suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, ball joints, power steering, steering column, linkage
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, alternator, starter, lighting systems, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, instrument cluster, comfort electronics, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System - Airbag), convertible top control module, cruise control, climate control electronics
Body Chassis:
Body structure, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, convertible top mechanism, interior trim, seats, glass, chassis components
Climate Control:
HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), refrigerant, components, operation, diagnostics
Convertible Top:
Hydraulic and electrical systems for power-operated soft top and retractable hardtop (where applicable)
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, inspections
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common fault identification, symptom-based troubleshooting
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment
Diagnostic Procedures:
Engine diagnostics, electrical system testing, component testing, use of diagnostic tools (e.g., Star diagnostic system procedures)
Specification Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, electrical values
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive (from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including electrical system testing and ECU fault code interpretation
Rebuild Instructions:
Detailed instructions for major component overhauls, such as engine and transmission rebuilds
Engine Options:
Multiple V8 and V12 engine options throughout its production run, including M119 and M120 families.
Engine Variants Covered:
SL320 (M104 3.2L Inline-6, early models), SL500 (M119 5.0L V8), SL600 (M120 6.0L V12).
Sl500 Horsepower:
Approx. 322 hp @ 5500 rpm (M119 E50)
Sl500 Torque:
Approx. 339 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm (M119 E50)
Sl600 Horsepower:
Approx. 389 hp @ 5200 rpm (M120 E60)
Sl600 Torque:
Approx. 420 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm (M120 E60)
Fuel Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Bosch KE-Jetronic (early), Bosch Motronic ME (later models)
Fuel Grade Requirement:
Premium Unleaded (91 Octane or higher)
Standard Transmission:
5-speed automatic transmission (e.g., 722.6 for later models, 722.5 for earlier V8s)
Optional Transmission:
Manual transmission was not commonly offered for the R129 generation, primarily automatic.
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, with multiple driving modes (e.g., Comfort/Sport).
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.10 or MB 236.14 (for 722.6 transmissions - Dexron III/Mercon compatible)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil used.
Major Service Intervals:
Refer to manual for specific mileage-based service 'A', 'B', etc., often around 30,000 miles for more comprehensive checks and fluid replacements.
Engine Oil Specification:
MB 229.1 or MB 229.3 (e.g., 0W-40, 5W-40, 5W-50 synthetic oils depending on ambient temperature).
Coolant Specification:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G48 or equivalent, typically a blue/green ethylene glycol based with silicate corrosion inhibitors)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 (or DOT 3 for some older specifications, but DOT 4 is recommended for improved performance)
Common Issues Wiring Harness:
Degradation of biodegradable insulation on wiring harnesses, leading to short circuits and electrical gremlins. Specific harnesses are prone to this (e.g., engine wiring).
Common Issues Hydraulic Lines:
Wear and tear on hydraulic lines for the convertible top and suspension can lead to leaks.
Common Issues Ignition Coils:
Failure of ignition coils, especially on V8 and V12 engines, can cause misfires.
Common Issues Mass Air Flow Sensor:
Failure of the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor can affect engine performance and fuel economy.
Common Issues Window Regulators:
Failure of window regulators and associated motors.
Common Issues Drive Belt Tensioner:
Wear or failure of the automatic drive belt tensioner and idler pulleys.