🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: R129 SL-Class Codes Chassis Code: R129 Generation Production Years Covered: 1990-1999 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Luxury Grand Tourer / Sports Convertible Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: BMW 8 Series (E31), Porsche 911 (964/993), Jaguar XJS, Ferrari 348/F355. Key Features Body Styles: Two-door convertible with retractable hardtop (coupe functionality). Design Philosophy: Blend of robust performance, luxury, safety, and sophisticated engineering, continuing the legacy of the SL roadster. Target Audience Demographic: Affluent individuals seeking a high-performance, luxurious, and technologically advanced grand touring convertible with excellent everyday usability and safety. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Regions Covered: Global (primarily North American and European specifications) Page Count Estimated Page Count: Extensive (typically over 2000 pages combined for comprehensive coverage) Manual Type Type: Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Downloadable Digital Format (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, drivetrain components (driveshaft, differential). Chassis: Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, ESC), wheels, tires, chassis structure. Electrical: Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, body control modules (BCM), comfort modules, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). Body: Body panels, doors, windows, convertible top mechanism (hydraulic and electronic), interior trim, seats, bumpers, exterior trim. HVAC: Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (climate control system), components, operation, and diagnosis. Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine checks, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, inspections. Troubleshooting: Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon faults, including symptom-based troubleshooting charts. Repair: Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, installation, and adjustment for all major systems. Rebuild: Detailed procedures for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds, including specifications and tolerances. Diagnostics: Diagnostic procedures utilizing factory scan tools (e.g., STAR Diagnosis), including component testing and parameter reading. Torque Specifications: Includes detailed torque specifications for all fasteners critical to engine, chassis, and body assembly. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering from basic preventative maintenance to full mechanical and electrical system overhauls and diagnostics. Wiring Diagrams: Extensive and detailed electrical system wiring diagrams for all major vehicle systems. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF (Portable Document Format) Print Quality Quality: High-resolution scans for clear text, diagrams, and images. Binding Type Binding Description: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Description: N/A (Digital Download) Searchability Text Searchable: Yes (where applicable, for OCR processed PDFs) Completeness Coverage Scope: Covers all aspects of repair, maintenance, diagnostics, and troubleshooting, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Variants: 300 SL (M104.980), SL 500 (M119.960), SL 600 (M120.980), SL 320 (M104.992), SL 280 (M104.944). Performance 300Sl Horsepower: 228 hp @ 5700 rpm (approx.) 300Sl Torque: 258 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.) Sl500 Horsepower: 322 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx.) Sl500 Torque: 354 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm (approx.) Sl600 Horsepower: 389 hp @ 5200 rpm (approx.) Sl600 Torque: 420 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm (approx.) Sl320 Horsepower: 228 hp @ 5700 rpm (approx.) Sl320 Torque: 265 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI) with Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor. Construction Cylinder Block Material: Aluminum Alloy Cylinder Head Material: Aluminum Alloy Valvetrain: DOHC (Double Overhead Camshafts), 4 valves per cylinder. 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Early Models: 4-speed automatic (e.g., 722.3 for 300 SL, 722.4 for some 300SL variants) Transmission Type Later Models: 5-speed automatic (e.g., 722.6 'NAG' for SL 500/600 and later SL 320). Optional Optional Transmission: No manual transmission offered for R129 SL-Class. Features Traction Control: ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation) standard on most models, later Traction Control System (TCS). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 186.7 inches (4742 mm) Width: Approx. 70.2 inches (1783 mm) Height: Approx. 51.0 inches (1295 mm) Wheelbase: Approx. 101.7 inches (2583 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 3900 - 4400 lbs (1769 - 2000 kg), depending on engine and equipment. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Performance: Designed to meet and exceed contemporary safety standards, with robust chassis, integrated roll-over protection. Active Features Braking System: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard, with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) on later models. Stability Control: ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation) standard on most, later models may have ESP (Electronic Stability Program). Passive Features Airbags: Driver and passenger front airbags. Later models feature enhanced airbag systems. Roll Over Protection: Automatic, deployable roll-bar system integrated behind the seats. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory premium sound systems (e.g., Becker or Bose), often with cassette and AM/FM radio. CD changers available as an option. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Electronic cruise control standard. Climate Control: Automatic climate control (THERMATIC or THERMOTRONIC) with dual-zone temperature control on some models. Connectivity Telematics: Early models may have had pre-wiring for optional car phones. Later models could feature more integrated communication systems. Lighting Headlights: Halogen headlamps, with Xenon HID option available on later models. 🔧 Maintenance...