🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: 500SL Model Code: R129 Years Covered: 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993 Codes Engine Code Primary: M119.960 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Luxury Grand Tourer Convertible Target Audience: Enthusiasts, owners seeking to maintain or repair their vehicle Competitive Analysis Competitors: BMW 8 Series (E31), Jaguar XJS, Porsche 911 (964) Key Features Vehicle Attributes: V8 engine, sophisticated engineering, high build quality, advanced safety features for its era Manual Value Proposition: Essential for DIY maintenance and repair, cost savings on professional labor, understanding of vehicle systems 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Main Coverage: Service, Repair, Workshop Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1000+ Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Complete disassembly, assembly, diagnosis, tuning, performance specifications Fuel System: Fuel injection system (KE-Jetronic), fuel pump, injectors, lines, pressure regulation, diagnosis Cooling System: Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, fan system, diagnosis Ignition System: Ignition coil, spark plugs, distributor, wiring, diagnosis Exhaust System: Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, hangers, diagnosis Transmission: 4-speed Automatic Transmission (722.3XX series), removal, installation, overhaul, fluid specifications, diagnosis Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive, driveshaft, differential, axle shafts, U-joints, lubrication Suspension: Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, alignment specifications Steering: Power steering system, steering rack, pump, hoses, fluid specifications, diagnosis Brakes: Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), calipers, rotors, pads, lines, fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, diagnosis Electrical System: 12V system, battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams, fuse box, relay locations, component testing Lighting System: Headlights, taillights, interior lights, bulb types, wiring Climate Control: HVAC system, air conditioning, heating, blower motor, climate control unit, refrigerant, diagnosis Body And Interior: Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, convertible top mechanism, interior trim, seats, carpets Convertible Top: Hydraulic system, motors, switches, sensors, troubleshooting, maintenance Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups, belt replacements Troubleshooting: Diagnostic flowcharts, common problems and solutions, electrical system diagnostics Repair: Component removal, installation, overhaul, adjustments, calibration Diagnostics: Engine, transmission, ABS, climate control, electrical system fault finding Torque Specifications: Engine, transmission, suspension, chassis fasteners Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds) Diagnostic Tools: Information on necessary specialized tools and diagnostic equipment 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Searchable text content Print Quality Resolution: High-resolution scans suitable for printing Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital format) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: V8, SOHC (Single Overhead Cam) Displacement: 4973 cc (5.0 Liters) Bore X Stroke: 96.0 mm x 85.0 mm Compression Ratio: 10.0:1 Performance Horsepower: 322 hp @ 5700 rpm (approx.) Torque: 347 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm (approx.) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch KE-Jetronic Electronic Fuel Injection Fuel Type: Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended) Engine Management Engine Control Unit: ECU (specific model varies by year/market) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed Automatic Transmission Model: 722.3XX Series Optional Optional Transmission: None offered for 500SL in these years Features Gear Ratios: Specific ratios detailed within the manual Transmission Fluid Type: MB 236.1 Specification (e.g., ATF Dexron III compatible) Transmission Fluid Capacity: Approximately 8.0 Liters (dry fill) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 4470 mm (176.0 in) Width: 1812 mm (71.3 in) Height: 1302 mm (51.3 in) Wheelbase: 2515 mm (99.0 in) Weights Curb Weight: 1820 kg (4012 lbs) (approx.) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 2200 kg (approx.) Towing Capacity: Not specified/recommended for this model 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Results: N/A (Official crash test data from this era may be limited or not directly comparable to modern standards) Active Features ABS: Standard (Anti-lock Braking System) Traction Control: Optional (ASR - Acceleration Slip Regulation) Passive Features Airbags: Standard driver's airbag, optional passenger airbag Rollover Protection: Standard automatic rollover protection system (hoop) Seatbelts: Pre-tensioned seatbelts 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Radio: Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, often with premium sound system option Navigation: Not commonly available in these early models, aftermarket options were prevalent. Driver Assistance ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced braking control. Asr: Optional Acceleration Slip Regulation (ASR) to prevent wheelspin. Connectivity OBD Ii: Not equipped with OBD-II. Uses proprietary Mercedes-Benz diagnostic connectors and procedures detailed in the manual. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 15,000 km or 12 months (check manual for exact recommendation based on driving conditions) Major Service Interval: Refer to manual for A/B service intervals (e.g., 30,000 km or 24 months) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: MB 229.1 Specification (e.g., 10W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic, check manual for exact approval) Engine Oil Capacity: 8.0 Liters (with filter change) Coolant Type: MB 325.0 Specification (Glysantin G48 or equivalent silicate-free coolant) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 4 (FMVSS No. 116) Power Steering Fluid: MB 236.3 Specification (ATF Dexron II) Windshield Washer Fluid: Mixture of...