🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: SL 500 Year: 1997 Chassis Code: R129 Product Name: 1997 Mercedes Benz SL 500 Hydraulic Product Description: Mercedes Benz SL 500 Hydraulic Cylinder For Soft Top Bow Removal 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Luxury Grand Tourer Convertible Target Audience: Owners and independent repair shops specializing in high-end European vehicles. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Porsche 911 Carrera Targa, BMW 8 Series Convertible, Jaguar XJS Convertible. Key Features Vehicle Prestige: Represents a pinnacle of automotive engineering and luxury from its era. Manual Value: Essential for maintaining the complex and often problematic hydraulic soft top system. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Focus: Hydraulic system, specifically soft top bow removal Related Systems: Convertible top mechanism, hydraulic pumps, actuators, lines, reservoirs, electrical controls for top operation Page Count Estimated Pages: 75-125 (typical for specific hydraulic component manuals) Manual Type Type: Specialized Repair Manual / Technical Bulletin Language Language: English Format Format: PDF on CD-ROM 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Hydraulic System: Detailed coverage of the electro-hydraulic soft top system, including all components and their functions. Convertible Top Mechanism: Operation, maintenance, and repair of the entire power convertible top assembly, including bows, linkages, and seals. Electrical Controls: Wiring diagrams, switch functions, relay assignments, and troubleshooting for the soft top's electronic control unit. Procedures Included Component Removal Installation: Step-by-step instructions for removing and installing hydraulic cylinders, actuators, and related components. Hydraulic Fluid Service: Procedures for checking, topping off, and replacing hydraulic fluid, including bleeding the system. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures for common soft top malfunctions, including leaks, slow operation, and complete failure. Adjustment And Alignment: Procedures for adjusting and aligning the soft top mechanism for proper sealing and operation. Technical Depth Diagnostic Capabilities: Advanced diagnostic steps, including pressure testing and electrical continuity checks. Repair Complexity: Covers complex repairs and component overhauls of the hydraulic system. Diagrams And Illustrations: Detailed exploded views, schematics, and component illustrations for clarity. Specification Detail: Includes specific torque values, clearances, and component tolerances where applicable. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: PDF Searchability: Likely text-searchable PDF, allowing for quick information retrieval. Medium: CD-ROM Print Quality Digital Quality: High-resolution scans suitable for printing specific pages or sections. Binding Type Physical Format: Not applicable (provided on CD-ROM) Paper Type Physical Format: Not applicable (provided on CD-ROM) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M119.980 Engine Type: 4.966L SOHC V8 Performance Horsepower: 322 hp @ 5500 rpm Torque: 347 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm Fuel System Fuel Injection: Bosch Motronic M1.8 Fuel Injection Recommended Octane: 91+ Octane (Premium Unleaded) Engine Type Bore X Stroke: 96.5 mm x 85.0 mm Compression Ratio: 10.0:1 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-Speed Automatic (722.6 '5G-Tronic' optional, but standard on later models) Optional Transmission Type: 5-Speed Automatic (722.6 '5G-Tronic') Features Transmission Fluid: MB Spec 236.10 or 236.12 Automatic Transmission Fluid Fluid Capacity: Approx. 8 liters (17 US pints) for a complete change 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 188.2 inches (4780 mm) Width: 70.5 inches (1790 mm) Height: 51.4 inches (1305 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 4123 lbs (1870 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approx. 4960 lbs (2250 kg) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Rating: Not explicitly rated under modern NHTSA standards, but built to high safety standards of the era. Active Features Traction Control: ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation) ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System Passive Features Airbags: Driver and Passenger Airbags, Rollover protection system (pop-up roll bar) Seatbelts: Automatic Seatbelt Tensioners 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Bose premium sound system with cassette player and CD changer provisions. Climate Control: Automatic Climate Control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control) Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard electronic cruise control. Connectivity Antenna: Power-retractable antenna. Other Features Seats: Electrically adjustable heated front seats with memory function. Mirrors: Auto-dimming rearview mirror, heated and power-adjustable side mirrors. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil). Transmission Fluid Change: Every 30,000 miles or 24 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific advice). Hydraulic Fluid Check: Inspect for leaks and level at every service; recommended replacement/flush interval typically 60,000 miles or as per manual. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 Synthetic (MB Spec 229.5) Coolant Type: Mercedes-Benz Genuine Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., ZEREX G-05) Hydraulic Fluid: Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid (consult manual for exact MB part number). Brake Fluid Type: DOT 4 Power Steering Fluid: MB Spec 231.1 Power Steering Fluid Known Issues Soft Top Hydraulics: Common issues include leaks in cylinders and hoses, pump failure, and actuator failure due to age and fluid degradation. This manual directly addresses these. Wiring Harness: Degradation of the wiring harness insulation can lead to electrical gremlins, including soft top malfunctions. Mas Air Flow Sensor: Can become dirty or fail, affecting engine performance and fuel economy. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage...