🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: SL500 Year: 1997 Codes Chassis Code: R129 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: Premium Grand Tourer (GT) Convertible, targeting luxury and performance-oriented clientele. Competitive Analysis Competitors: BMW 8 Series, Jaguar XJS, Porsche 911 (993 generation), Chevrolet Corvette (C5 generation) Key Features Highlights: Robust V8 power, sophisticated suspension, retractable hardtop (optional vario-roof), luxury interior appointments, advanced safety features for its era. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Covered Systems: Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Brakes, Steering, Electrical System, HVAC, Bodywork, Interior, Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting Page Count Estimated Pages: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Official Service and Repair Manual Software Language Language: English Format Format: Software (Digital) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: M119.970 5.0L V8 Engine, 722.6 5-Speed Automatic Transmission Chassis: Independent Front Suspension (MacPherson Strut with Multi-link), Independent Rear Suspension (Multi-link), Power Assisted Steering (Hydraulic), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (ASR) Electrical: Engine Control Module (ECM), Body Control Module (BCM), Ignition System, Fuel Injection System, Lighting, Power Accessories, Climate Control Electronics, Instrument Cluster, SRS (Airbag) System Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Level Checks and Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection and Replacement Repair: Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Steering System Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Body Panel Repair Diagnostics: Fault Code Reading and Interpretation (OBD-II), Component Testing, Circuit Diagnosis, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive - Includes detailed diagnostic procedures, component-level repair instructions, torque specifications, wiring diagrams, and exploded views. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: Proprietary Software (likely executable or interactive PDF/HTML based) Print Quality Quality: Digital - High-resolution graphics, diagrams, and text. Searchable content. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Software) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital Software) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M119.970 Engine Type: SOHC V8 Displacement: 4973 cc (5.0 Liters) Bore X Stroke: 96.5 mm x 85.0 mm Compression Ratio: 10.0:1 Performance Horsepower: 315 hp @ 5600 rpm Torque: 347 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch Motronic M1.3 Engine Management System with Sequential Fuel Injection Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended) Cooling System Coolant Capacity: 11.5 Liters (12.2 US Quarts) Lubrication System Oil Capacity W Filter: 8.0 Liters (8.5 US Quarts) Recommended Oil Viscosity: SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 (API SJ or better, MB-Approval 229.3) 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 5-Speed Automatic Transmission Code: 722.6 (Mercedes-Benz 5G-Tronic) Optional Type: N/A for SL500 in 1997 Features Modes: Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes Fluid Specs Fluid Type: MB-Approval 236.14 Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin ATF 1) Fluid Capacity Capacity: Approximately 7.5 Liters (dry fill), 5.5 Liters (drain and fill) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 4509 mm (177.5 in) Width: 1810 mm (71.3 in) Height: 1300 mm (51.2 in) Wheelbase: 2515 mm (99.0 in) Front Track: 1532 mm (60.3 in) Rear Track: 1526 mm (60.1 in) Weights Curb Weight: 1830 kg (4034 lbs) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr: 2300 kg (5070 lbs) Payload Capacity: 470 kg (1036 lbs) Towing Capacity: Not Recommended/Specified Cargo Trunk Volume: 215 Liters (7.6 cu ft) with soft top stowed 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: Not Rated (Vehicle manufactured before comprehensive NHTSA rating system) IIHS Side Impact: Not Rated (Vehicle manufactured before comprehensive IIHS rating system) Active Features Braking: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) Traction Control: Acceleration Slip Regulation (ASR) / Traction Control System (TCS) Passive Features Airbags: Driver and Front Passenger Airbags (SRS), Side Airbags (optional/standard depending on market) Roll Over Protection: Automatic Roll-over Bar Deployment System Seatbelts: Front Seatbelt Pretensioners and Force Limiters 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Bose premium sound system (standard or optional, depending on trim/market) with cassette and AM/FM radio. CD changer optional. Climate Control: Automatic Climate Control with cabin air filter and recirculation mode. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard electronic cruise control. Headlights: Halogen projector beam headlights with headlight washers. Connectivity Phone Integration: Optional factory-installed cellular telephone system (older analog technology). Convertible Top Operation: Power-operated soft top with optional hardtop (for winter use). R129 featured an advanced electro-hydraulic system for top operation. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (with synthetic oil). Transmission Service: Every 60,000 miles or 4 years. Includes fluid and filter replacement. Coolant Flush: Every 2 years or 30,000 miles. Spark Plug Replacement: Every 100,000 miles (if using long-life iridium spark plugs). Fluid Specifications Brake Fluid: DOT 4 Plus (MB-Approval 331.0) Power Steering Fluid: Pentosin CHF 11S (MB-Approval 343.0) Coolant: Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G48) Known Issues Wiring Harness: Degradation of the insulation on the engine wiring harness ('biodegradable wiring') can lead to various electrical issues. Repair often involves replacement. Mass Air Flow Sensor Maf: Can become dirty or fail, leading to rough idle, poor acceleration, and check engine lights. Ignition Coils: Can...