Positioning:
The Mercedes-Benz 380SL (R107) was a luxury grand tourer positioned as a prestigious, comfortable, and capable open-top sports car for discerning clientele. It competed with other luxury convertibles of its era.
Competitors:
Jaguar XJS, BMW 6 Series (E24), Porsche 928 (as a grand tourer competitor).
Vehicle Highlights:
V8 engine, robust build quality, refined ride, convertible and hardtop options, iconic styling, advanced (for its time) engineering.
Value Proposition:
Essential for owners and technicians alike, providing detailed instructions for diagnosing, maintaining, and repairing the 380SL, ensuring longevity and optimal performance of this classic Mercedes-Benz.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, camshafts, timing, lubrication system, cooling system.
Engine Fuel System:
Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection system (CIS), fuel pump, fuel filter, injectors, fuel lines, idle control.
Engine Ignition System:
Spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor, timing adjustments.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, manual gearbox (checking fluid, clutch disk inspection).
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission (fluid and filter change, fluid level check and correction).
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, flexible coupling, rear axle (oil change, level check, mount adjustment).
Suspension:
Front axle (oil level, ball joints), rear axle, level control (ADS, ASD), self-leveling suspension (inspection).
Steering:
Power steering fluid level, steering play, steering bolt retightening.
Brakes:
Brake fluid level, brake lines, pads and disk thickness, disk cleaning, parking brake cable and adjustment, brake fluid replacement, brake system testing.
Electrical System:
Battery fluid level, warning and indicator lamps, headlamp and exterior lamp inspection.
Body And Chassis:
Suspension and body structure inspection, water leakage and corrosion inspection, engine compartment lower panel removal/installation, door hinges/locks lubrication, sunroof cleaning/greasing, soft top inspection, hood lubrication, lower noise encapsulation panel removal/installation, body paint damage inspection.
Heating Ventilation And Air Conditioning:
Cooling system (coolant level, antifreeze, replacement), heating & ventilation dust filter replacement, active charcoal filter replacement, recirculating air filter replacement, AC refrigerant charge check, windshield wiper and washer inspection.
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel inspection and rotation, tire inspection, tire pressure correction, wheel bolt tightening.
Miscellaneous:
Throttle linkage inspection and lubrication, idle speed adjuster check and adjustment, fuel system condition check, exhaust manifold/system retightening, windshield washer fluid level, antenna mast cleaning, cassette deck tone head cleaning.
Routine Maintenance:
Engine oil and filter change, air filter replacement, V-belt inspection, fuel filter replacement, checking fluid levels (coolant, oil, power steering, brake, transmission, transfer case, clutch, hydraulic top), lubrication points.
Engine Repair:
Valve clearance adjustment and checking, injection timing adjustment and checking, spark plug replacement, engine mount bolt retorque, intake and exhaust manifold seating inspection.
Transmission Service:
Manual transmission oil change, automatic transmission fluid and filter change, transfer case fluid change.
Brake Service:
Brake fluid replacement, parking brake adjustment, brake system checks.
Suspension And Steering:
Ball joint inspection, axle oil level checks, self-leveling suspension inspection.
Body And Trim:
Soft top operation, hydraulic top fluid check, sunroof maintenance, door/hood lubrication, panel removal/installation.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Determining the cause of vehicle-related problems, inspection of components, lines, and hoses, checking system conditions.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to component rebuilding and advanced diagnostics of the K-Jetronic fuel injection system.
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Always consult the manual for specific recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-37,000 miles) or 2-3 years.
Coolant Replacement:
Every 2-4 years, or as specified by coolant type. Check for proper antifreeze protection.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 API SG or higher (consult manual for precise viscosity and API rating based on climate).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Specification:
MB 236.3 or Dexron II (check manual for exact specification)
Common Problems:
Fuel distributor leaks (K-Jetronic), vacuum hose deterioration, aging rubber components (bushings, mounts), potential cooling system leaks, electronic control unit (if equipped) issues, rust in typical areas for vehicles of this age.
Maintenance Tips:
Regular inspection of fuel lines and vacuum hoses is critical. Proper maintenance of the K-Jetronic system is key to performance and emissions. Keep water drains clear to prevent cabin water ingress and rust.
