🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: SL320 Year: 1997 Codes Chassis Code: R129 Engine Code: M104.992 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Luxury Grand Tourer / Sports Car Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: BMW 8 Series, Jaguar XJS, Porsche 911 Key Features Vehicle Appeal: Sophisticated engineering, comfortable ride, powerful inline-six engine, advanced technology for its era, iconic design. Manual Value Proposition Target Audience: Mercedes-Benz SL320 owners seeking detailed repair and maintenance guidance, professional mechanics specializing in Mercedes-Benz. Official Licensing Licensing Status: Officially Licensed 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: Comprehensive service and repair Page Count Estimated Pages: 2000+ Manual Type Type: Service and Repair Manual Software Language Language: English Format Format: Software (Digital Download/CD-ROM expected) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine (M104), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System Transmission: 5-speed Automatic Transmission (722.6) Chassis: Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS) Electrical: Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Instruments, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories, SRS (Airbag) System Body: Exterior & Interior Trim, Convertible Top Mechanism, Body Panels Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks Diagnostics: Troubleshooting common issues, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing Repair: Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake system service, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair Special Procedures: Convertible top system repair, SRS system calibration, diagnostic connector interface Technical Depth Depth: Expert level, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Software Platform: Likely Windows-compatible application or searchable PDF Print Quality Digital Quality: High resolution diagrams, clear text, searchable content Binding Type Format Notes: Digital, not a physical book. 'Old prin......' suggests potential for scanned printed manuals with OCR. Paper Type Digital Format Details: N/A (digital format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC Displacement: 3199 cc (3.2 Liters) Bore X Stroke: 89.9 mm x 84.0 mm Compression Ratio: 10.0:1 Performance Horsepower: 228 hp @ 5,500 rpm Torque: 232 lb-ft @ 3,750 rpm Fuel System Injection Type: Bosch Motronic M2.8.3 Electronic Fuel Injection Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded (91+ octane) Cooling System Coolant Type: Mercedes-Benz approved coolant (e.g., G48) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-speed Automatic (722.6) Gear Ratios: Manual specifies ratios for 722.6 transmission Optional Optional Transmission: N/A for MY1997 SL320 Features Transmission Fluid: MB Specification 236.10 (e.g., Pentosin ATF 1 or equivalent) Transmission Capacity: Approx. 7.5 - 8.5 liters (dry fill) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 181.7 inches (4615 mm) Width: 70.5 inches (1790 mm) Height: 51.1 inches (1298 mm) Wheelbase: 98.8 inches (2509 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 3,900 - 4,100 lbs (1769 - 1860 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approx. 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) Interior Seating Capacity: 2+2 seating configuration Cargo Trunk Volume: Approximately 6.9 cubic feet (195 liters) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: Not specifically rated by NHTSA in the modern sense, but designed to high Mercedes-Benz standards. Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Traction Control: ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation) traction control Passive Features Airbags: Driver and Passenger Airbags (SRS), potentially side airbags depending on early production. Rollover Protection: Automatic rollover hoops deployable from behind headrests Seatbelts: Pretensioning seatbelts 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory premium sound system (e.g., Becker Grand Prix) Navigation: Optional factory navigation system (less common) Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard electronic cruise control Climate Control: Automatic climate control with recirculate function Connectivity Factory Phone System: Optional integrated cellular phone Other Tech Convertible Top Operation: Fully automatic, electro-hydraulic operation with integrated roll bar deployment 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Refer to manual, typically 7,500 miles or 12 months Major Service Interval: Refer to manual, e.g., Service A, B, C, etc. (often at 15k, 30k, 60k mile intervals) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: MB 229.1 or 229.5 5W-40 synthetic recommended Coolant Capacity: Approx. 9.5 liters (2007 M104) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 4 Power Steering Fluid Type: MB Specification 236.3 Known Issues Wiring Harness: Cracking/degradation of insulation on older wiring harnesses (biodegradable insulation used by Mercedes in this era) Convertible Top Hydraulics: Leaks in hydraulic lines for the soft top mechanism, pump failures Mass Air Flow Sensor: Potential failure leading to poor running conditions Ignition Coils: Degradation of ignition coil boots leading to misfires Evaporative Emissions System: Issues with charcoal canister or purge valve ABS/Asr Components: Wheel speed sensor failures, ABS/ASR control module issues 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Mercedes Benz Legacy: Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering excellence, and safety since the late 19th century. Model Evolution R129 Generation: The R129 SL was introduced in 1989, succeeding the R107. The SL320 was part of the facelifted models in the mid-1990s. Technical Advancements: Introduction of the 722.6 5-speed automatic transmission (electronic control), increased safety features, and updated styling. Production Production Period: R129 produced from 1989 to 2001. 1997 model year. Manufacturing Location: Bremen, Germany 🏆 Awards & Recognition Recognitions Industry Accolades: While specific awards for...