1987 560SL Service Manual

The 1987 Mercedes-Benz 560SL is a luxury roadster featuring a 5.6L V8 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, advanced suspension system, power steering, ABS brakes, climate control, and comprehensive electronic systems. This service manual covers maintenance procedures, technical specifications, troubleshooting guides, and repair instructions for proper vehicle upkeep and performance optimization.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Engine Service 4. Transmission Service 5. Brake System 6. Electrical System 7. Suspension & Steering 8. Fuel System 9. Cooling System 10. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Specifications

Technical specifications for the 1987 Mercedes-Benz 560SL luxury roadster.

Component	Specification
Engine	5.6L V8 M117.968
Displacement	5547 cc
Horsepower	227 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque	279 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Transmission	4-speed automatic 722.3
Fuel System	CIS-E electronic fuel injection
Brakes	4-wheel disc with ABS
Suspension	Independent front and rear
Wheelbase	96.9 inches
Curb Weight	3,650 lbs

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals for optimal vehicle performance and longevity.

Oil and filter change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
Spark plugs: Replace every 30,000 miles
Air filter: Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed
Brake fluid: Flush every 2 years
Coolant: Replace every 3 years or 30,000 miles
Transmission fluid: Change every 60,000 miles

WARNING! Always use Mercedes-Benz approved fluids and parts. Follow torque specifications precisely.

Engine Service

Procedures for engine maintenance and repair.

Oil change: Drain oil, replace filter with Mann filter, refill with 8.5 quarts 15W-40
Spark plug replacement: Use Bosch WR9DS plugs gapped to 0.8mm
Valve adjustment: Check every 30,000 miles, adjust to 0.15mm intake, 0.30mm exhaust
Timing chain: Inspect for wear at 100,000 miles
Compression test: Perform if engine performance issues occur

CAUTION! Engine components operate at high temperatures. Allow engine to cool before servicing.

Transmission Service

Transmission Type: 4-speed automatic 722.3
Fluid Capacity: 7.5 quarts Mercedes-Benz ATF
Fluid Change: Every 60,000 miles
Filter Replacement: With every fluid change
Shift Points: 1-2: 15 mph, 2-3: 25 mph, 3-4: 45 mph
Kickdown: Full throttle for maximum acceleration
Vacuum Modulator: Check for leaks if shifting issues occur

Brake System

Service procedures for the 4-wheel disc brake system with ABS.

Front Brakes: 11.0 inch ventilated discs, dual-piston calipers. Rear Brakes: 10.9 inch solid discs, single-piston calipers.

Pad Replacement: Remove wheels, compress caliper pistons, replace pads, bleed system if necessary. Rotor Inspection: Check for scoring and minimum thickness (front: 22.4mm, rear: 10.0mm). ABS Service: Diagnostic connector under hood for fault code reading.

Electrical System

Battery: 12V 80Ah, located in engine compartment. Alternator: 90A output. Fuses: Located in driver's side footwell and engine compartment.

Battery replacement: Disconnect negative first, then positive
Alternator testing: Check for 13.8-14.4V at 2000 rpm
Bulb replacement: Headlights H4, parking lights 5W, brake lights 21W
Fuse identification: Refer to fuse box diagram for circuit protection

Tip: Always disconnect battery before electrical work to prevent shorts.

Suspension & Steering

Independent suspension with gas-charged shocks and power steering.

Shock absorber replacement: Support vehicle, remove wheels, replace struts
Ball joint inspection: Check for play every 15,000 miles
Power steering fluid: Use Dexron II, check reservoir level monthly
Wheel alignment: Toe-in: 0°10' ± 0°10', Camber: -0°45' ± 0°30'
Tire pressure: 29 psi front, 32 psi rear (cold)

WARNING! Use proper jack stands when working under vehicle. Never rely on hydraulic jack alone.

Fuel System

CIS-E continuous injection system with electronic control.

Fuel Pump: Electric, in-tank. Fuel Filter: Replace every 30,000 miles. Fuel Pressure: 65-75 psi. Injectors: Clean every 60,000 miles. Air Flow Sensor: Do not attempt to adjust without special tools.

Cooling System

Pressurized cooling system with electric fan.

Radiator Capacity: 12.7 quarts. Thermostat: Opens at 87°C. Coolant: Mercedes-Benz antifreeze mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Fan Clutch: Check for proper engagement when hot. Hoses: Inspect for cracks and softness annually.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Hard starting	Fuel pressure, spark plugs	Check fuel pump pressure; inspect spark plugs and wires
Poor acceleration	Air flow sensor, fuel filter	Test air flow sensor voltage; replace fuel filter
Transmission slipping	Low fluid, vacuum modulator	Check fluid level and condition; inspect vacuum lines
Brake pulsation	Warped rotors	Measure rotor thickness; machine or replace as needed
Overheating	Thermostat, water pump	Test thermostat operation; check water pump for leaks

Reset: Disconnect battery for 30 minutes to reset computer if electrical issues occur.

Service: Contact authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for complex diagnostics.