Target Audience:
Do-it-yourselfers and experienced mechanics seeking comprehensive repair and maintenance information.
Value Proposition:
Inexpensive way to keep your vehicle working properly, detailed illustrations, diagrams, wiring schematics, and step-by-step instructions.
Delivery:
Instant Download
Visual Aids:
Hundreds of photos and illustrations, exploded diagrams, drawings
Data Integrity:
100% complete and intact, no missing/corrupt pages/sections.
Engine:
Engine Overhaul and Rebuilding, Engine Performance, Firing Orders, Serpentine Belt Routings
Brakes:
Brakes, Brake Servicing Procedures, Complete Torque Specifications
Suspension Steering:
Front End and Alignment Procedures and Specifications, Suspension
Transmission:
Transmission Removal and Installation, Transmission In-Car Servicing
Electrical Electronic:
Wiring Diagrams, Computer Diagnostic Trouble Codes, Computer Diagnostic Trouble Tree Charts
Body Chassis:
Sunroof, U-Joint and CV-Joint Service Procedures, Vacuum Diagrams
Climate Control:
Air Conditioning Service and Capacities
Maintenance:
Factory Maintenance Schedules and Charts
Repair:
Repair, Rebuild, Refurbish, Restore, Detailed Repair Procedures
Diagnostics:
Trouble Codes, Troubleshooting and Diagnostics
Timing Belt:
Timing Belt Replacement, Timing Belt Service Procedures
Depth:
Complete disassembly, detailed step-by-step instructions, diagnostics, troubleshooting, specifications, and repair procedures for all vehicle systems.
Engine Family General:
M104, M119, M120 (V8/V12 variants covered)
Tuning Potential:
Manual covers factory specifications for various engine outputs, providing foundation for diagnostics and repair.
Fuel Injection:
Bosch KE-Jetronic (early models), Bosch LH-Jetronic, HFM (later models)
Ignition System:
Spark plug replacement, ignition coil diagnostics
Coolant Type:
Refer to manual for specific Mercedes-Benz coolant specifications (e.g., G48 or similar)
Type:
4-speed automatic (4G-TRONIC), 5-speed automatic (5G-TRONIC)
Availability:
No manual transmission options offered on R129 SL-Class.
Transmission Servicing:
In-car servicing, fluid change procedures, general overhaul.
Fluid Type:
Refer to manual for specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) specifications, e.g., MB 236.x
Crash Test Results:
While specific ratings for the R129 are not universally published in modern formats, its robust engineering and safety features were hallmarks of Mercedes-Benz engineering for its era. Manual covers associated safety systems.
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags, integrated roll-over bar (automatic deployment).
Seat Belts:
Automatic seat-belt presenters.
Audio System:
Factory premium sound systems (e.g., Bose), AM/FM radio, cassette player. Manual covers removal, installation, and basic troubleshooting of these components.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models, electronically controlled. Manual details diagnostics and repair.
Phone Integration:
Early cellular phone integration systems (optional) covered in the manual.
Power Soft Top:
Hydraulically operated convertible top system with complex linkages. Manual provides detailed repair and maintenance procedures.
Climate Control System:
Automatic climate control (optional on some models). Manual details HVAC system components and diagnostics.
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to manual for specific model year and driving conditions; typically 10,000-15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Refer to manual; often considered 'lifetime' by some interpretations, but recommended for periodic change (e.g., 60,000-100,000 km) for optimal longevity.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity grades such as 0W-40, 5W-40, 5W-50 depending on engine and climate.
Common Wear Items:
Harness wiring insulation degradation (especially around engine bay), distributor cap/rotor, fuel pump, catalytic converter, window regulators, hydraulic suspension components (e.g., self-leveling suspension). Manual provides repair guidance.
Top End Overhaul:
Manual details procedures for cylinder head gasket replacement, valve stem seals, and general engine top-end rebuilding.
Brand Philosophy:
Emphasis on luxury, performance, durability, and cutting-edge automotive engineering.
Generation Development:
Successor to the R107 SL, the R129 introduced significant advancements in chassis design, aerodynamics, and safety, including a stronger body structure and advanced suspension systems.
Production Years:
1989-2001
Manufacturing Locations:
Sindelfingen, Germany
