🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: SL500 Year: 1996 Chassis Code: R129 Generation Generation Code: R129 (Second Generation) Codes Engine Code Primary: 119.972 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: High-end luxury grand tourer, competitor to BMW 8 Series, Lexus SC400, and Jaguar XJS. Competitive Analysis Key Strengths: Exceptional build quality, powerful V8 engine, sophisticated suspension, advanced technology for its era, iconic design, and brand prestige. Key Features Vehicle Highlights: Retractable hardtop (SLR), power-operated soft top, advanced aerodynamics, sophisticated electronic climate control, premium interior materials. Manual Value Proposition Target Audience: Enthusiast owners, independent repair shops, classic Mercedes-Benz specialists, DIY mechanics with a strong technical aptitude. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Workshop Service Repair Additional Coverage: Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Repair, Overhaul, Electrical Schematics, Specifications Page Count Estimated Pages: Approximately 1000+ Manual Type Type: Comprehensive Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital Download (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine (M119 V8), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission (5-speed Automatic - 722.6 series) Chassis: Suspension (front & rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS), Wheels, Tires Electrical: Engine Control Module (ECM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Power Accessories (windows, locks, seats, convertible top), Audio System, Climate Control (ETS), SRS Airbag System, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) Body: Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Convertible Top Mechanism, Interior Trim Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, transmission, brake, power steering), filter replacements, spark plug replacement Repair Overhaul: Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, steering system overhaul, electrical component diagnosis and repair Diagnostics Troubleshooting: Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical circuit analysis, fault code interpretation Specifications Data: Torque specifications, tolerances, clearances, diagnostic data, wiring diagrams Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format Details: Searchable PDF, high-resolution scans, printable pages Print Quality Quality: High-resolution images and diagrams suitable for printing Binding Type Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Type: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated V8 Engine Code: M119.972 Displacement: 4973 cc (5.0 Liters) Bore X Stroke: 96.5 mm x 85.0 mm Compression Ratio: 10.0:1 Valvetrain: SOHC, 4 valves per cylinder (24 valves total) Performance Horsepower: 322 hp @ 5500 rpm Torque: 354 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch Motronic M2.8.3 Fuel Injection Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded (91 Octane Recommended) Engine Management Ignition System: Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with two ignition coils Cooling System Coolant Type: Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G48) Coolant Capacity: Approximately 11.0 Liters (11.6 Quarts) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-Speed Automatic Transmission Model: 722.6 Series (W5A 580) Optional Optional Transmission: N/A for SL500 in 1996 Features Transmission Features: Electronically controlled, torque converter lock-up, multiple shift modes (e.g., Comfort/Sport). Fluid Specifications Transmission Fluid Type: MB 236.81 (e.g., Mobil ATF 220, Pentosin ATF 100) Fluid Capacity Fluid Capacity: Approximately 7.5 - 8.5 Liters (Pan Drop/Refill) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 4485 mm (176.6 in) Width: 1812 mm (71.3 in) Height: 1300 mm (51.2 in) Wheelbase: 2515 mm (99.0 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 1770 kg (3902 lbs) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 2150 kg (4740 lbs) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Safety Certification: NHTSA - Not Rated (era-specific testing) Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Traction Control: Optional Acceleration Skid Control (ASR) Passive Features Airbags: Driver and Passenger Airbags, Optional Side Airbags Rollover Protection: Automatically deploying roll bar behind seats Seatbelts: 3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Bose premium sound system, often with a cassette player and CD changer (optional). Climate Control: Electronic Thermal-matic (ETS) automatic climate control with dual-zone temperature settings. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard cruise control with electronic actuation. Memory Seats: Power-adjustable front seats with multiple memory settings for driver and passenger. Connectivity Connectivity Features: Limited by era. Primarily focused on internal vehicle systems. Aftermarket Bluetooth or aux-in adapters are common. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil). Major Service Interval: Approximately 30,000 - 50,000 miles (includes spark plugs, transmission fluid, differential fluid, coolant, filters). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: SAE 0W-30 or 0W-40 Synthetic (API SM/SN or equivalent) Engine Oil Capacity: Approximately 8.0 Liters (8.5 Quarts) with filter change. Coolant Type Spec: MB-Approval 325.0 (G48, blue-green) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 4 (MB-Approval 331.0) Power Steering Fluid Type: MB 236.3 (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S) Known Issues Wiring Harness: Degradation of insulation on engine wiring harnesses (especially around the MAF sensor and ignition coils) due to heat and age. Often requires replacement. Hydraulic System: Leaks in the hydraulic system for the convertible top (e.g., cylinders, hoses, pump). Also, sagging Burlwood trim on door panels/center console. Suspension Components: Wear in front suspension bushings, ball joints, and control arms. Self-leveling rear suspension...