Vehicle Segment:
Luxury Grand Tourer Convertible
Key Competitors 1997:
BMW 8 Series Convertible, Jaguar XK8 Convertible, Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet (993 generation)
Vehicle Highlights:
Retractable Hardtop (optional on some earlier models, standard R129 evolution), powerful inline-six engine, refined ride, premium interior, advanced safety features for its era.
Target Audience:
Mercedes-Benz SL320 (R129) owners, independent repair shops, automotive enthusiasts seeking in-depth knowledge.
Primary Coverage:
Complete Service, Repair, and Workshop Procedures
Secondary Coverage:
Troubleshooting and Diagnostics
Estimated Pages:
Hundreds (specific number not provided, but indicated as extensive)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual
Language:
English (implied by description context)
Format:
PDF (Downloadable)
Powertrain:
Engine (M104), Transmission (4-speed automatic)
Chassis:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Drivetrain
Electrical:
Engine Control Unit (ECU), Body Electronics, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories
Body:
Body and Trim, Convertible Top System, Exterior and Interior Components
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Inspections
Repair:
Component Removal, Installation, Reassembly, Overhaul
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting, Fault Code Interpretation
Diagnostics:
Electrical System Diagnostics, Mechanical Component Diagnostics
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Compatibility:
Fully compatible with Windows and MAC computers.
Printability:
Printable: Allows printing of single pages or the entire manual.
Binding:
Digital (PDF Download)
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital Format)
Licensing:
Lifetime Use: No expiry dates, no renewal fees, usable on multiple devices and computers.
Visuals:
Hundreds of detailed photos and diagrams, including highly detailed exploded diagrams.
Engine Type:
3.2L (3199 cc) Inline 6-Cylinder, DOHC, 24 Valves
Horsepower Est:
228 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque Est:
232 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm
Injection Type:
Bosch Motronic M3.1 Fuel Injection
Coolant Type Spec:
MB Specification 325.0 (Glysantin G48 or equivalent blue/green antifreeze)
Oil Spec API:
API SJ or higher
Oil Viscosity:
SAE 0W-30 or 5W-40 recommended for most climates
Oil Capacity Qts:
7.4 quarts (7.0 liters) with filter
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic
Transmission Code:
722.6 (Introduced later in R129 production, check VIN for exact spec - earlier might have 4-speed 722.4 or 722.5 if SL500 was base)
Shift Modes:
Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB Specification 236.10 (ATF LT 71141 or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Capacity Lts:
Approximately 8 liters (for complete fluid change, pan drop is less)
NHTSA Rating Type:
Not applicable for individual component ratings in this era; tested as a whole vehicle.
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation) - Standard
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Airbags
Rollover Protection:
Automatic Pop-up Roll Bar (integrated safety feature)
Audio System:
Bose Premium Sound System (optional) with AM/FM radio, cassette player. CD changer integration likely present.
Climate Control:
Automatic Climate Control (ACC)
Cruise Control:
Standard electronically controlled cruise control.
Convertible Top Operation:
Electrically operated soft top with integrated hardtop for storage, powered by hydraulic system.
Seats:
Power adjustable front seats with memory function, heated seats (optional).
Oil Change Interval Miles:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 1 year, whichever comes first (check manual for specific conditions).
Major Service Interval Miles:
Major service typically around 30,000 miles or annually, covering more comprehensive checks and component replacements.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 (MB Specification 331.0)
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
MB Specification 236.3 (ATF Dexron II or equivalent)
Coolant Capacity Lts:
Approximately 10.5 liters
Common Problems Electrical:
Wiring harness degradation (especially in engine bay), EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) failures, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) indicator lights.
Common Problems Mechanical:
Concealed soft-top hydraulic lines (leaks), distributor-less ignition system (later M104s), cooling system components (water pump, thermostat), mass airflow sensor (MAF).
Common Problems Body:
Convertible top mechanism (slow operation, hydraulic leaks), door seal degradation, rust (less common than older models but can occur).
Filter Part Numbers Example
Oil Filter Part Number:
Mann-Filter W 102/23 or Mercedes-Benz A104 180 01 09
Air Filter Part Number:
Mann-Filter C 26 132/1 or Mercedes-Benz A104 094 15 04
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Long history of producing high-quality, luxurious, and technologically advanced vehicles, particularly in the roadster segment with models like the 300SL 'Gullwing'.
R129 Generation:
Introduced in 1989 as a replacement for the R107 SL. The R129 was a significant departure, featuring more advanced aerodynamics, chassis technology, and safety features. The SL320 model was often powered by a newly developed inline-six engine replacing older V8 options in base SL models.
R129 Production Years:
1989-2001
Manufacturing Location:
Sindelfingen, Germany
