1988 Mercedes Benz 560SL Repair Manual

The 1988 Mercedes Benz 560SL is a luxury roadster featuring a 5.6L V8 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, advanced suspension system, power steering, ABS brakes, and comprehensive electronic systems. This repair manual covers maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, component replacement, and service specifications for the 560SL model year. Below are key sections for technical specifications, maintenance schedules, repair procedures, electrical systems, and troubleshooting.

Vehicle Specifications

Technical specifications for the 1988 Mercedes Benz 560SL including engine, transmission, dimensions, and performance data.

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals and service procedures for optimal vehicle performance.

1. Oil Change: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
2. Spark Plugs: Replace every 30,000 miles
3. Timing Chain: Inspect every 60,000 miles
4. Brake Fluid: Replace every 2 years
5. Coolant Flush: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
6. Transmission Fluid: Replace every 60,000 miles

WARNING! Use only Mercedes Benz approved fluids and parts. Follow torque specifications precisely.

Engine Repair Procedures

Step-by-step instructions for common engine repairs and maintenance tasks.

1. Spark Plug Replacement: Remove ignition wires, use spark plug socket to remove old plugs, gap new plugs to 0.8mm
2. Valve Adjustment: Requires special tools, adjust to 0.15mm intake, 0.30mm exhaust when engine cold
3. Timing Chain Replacement: Remove front engine covers, align timing marks, install new chain and tensioner
4. Oil Pan Gasket: Remove underbody panels, drain oil, replace gasket with genuine Mercedes parts

CAUTION! Engine components under high pressure. Allow engine to cool before servicing.

Transmission Service

Automatic transmission maintenance and repair procedures.

• Fluid Change: Use only Mercedes Benz ATF, drain and refill procedure
• Filter Replacement: Replace transmission filter with fluid change
• Shift Linkage Adjustment: Adjust for proper gear selection
• Transmission Mounts: Inspect and replace if deteriorated
• Vacuum Modulator: Check for proper operation on 722.3 transmission

Brake System

Brake system maintenance, repair, and ABS troubleshooting.

Brake Pad Replacement: Remove wheels, compress caliper pistons, install new pads with shims.

Rotor Service: Measure rotor thickness, resurface or replace if below minimum spec.

ABS Diagnosis: Use diagnostic connector under hood to read fault codes.

Brake Bleeding: Use pressure bleeder, follow proper sequence: RR, LR, RF, LF.

Suspension & Steering

Front and rear suspension components and power steering system service.

1. Shock Absorber Replacement: Support vehicle properly, remove old shocks, install new with proper torque
2. Ball Joint Inspection: Check for play, replace if excessive movement detected
3. Power Steering Fluid: Use ATF, check reservoir level, bleed system after service
4. Wheel Alignment: Specifications: Camber -0.5° to +0.5°, Toe 0° to +0.2°

Tip: Use proper spring compressors when working with suspension springs.

Electrical Systems

Wiring diagrams, component locations, and electrical troubleshooting.

1. Battery: 12V 80Ah, located in trunk, check terminals for corrosion
2. Alternator: 90A output, test voltage output 13.5-14.5V at 2000 rpm
3. Starter: Located under intake manifold, test current draw
4. Fuse Box: Main fuse panel under dashboard, additional fuses in trunk
5. Instrument Cluster: Remove carefully to access bulbs and circuits

WARNING! Disconnect battery before electrical work. Use proper circuit testing equipment.

Fuel System

KE-Jetronic fuel injection system service and repair.

Fuel Pump: Electric pump in tank, pressure 65-75 psi

Fuel Filter: Replace every 30,000 miles, located under vehicle

Injectors: Test spray pattern, resistance 15-17 ohms

Cold Start Valve: Check operation during cold start conditions

Fuel Pressure Regulator: Maintains system pressure, test with gauge

Cooling System

Radiator, water pump, thermostat and cooling system maintenance.

• Radiator Flush: Use Mercedes approved coolant mixture 50/50
• Water Pump: Replace if bearing play or leakage detected
• Thermostat: Opens at 87°C, test in hot water
• Cooling Fan: Viscous clutch operation, test engagement
• Hoses: Inspect for cracks, replace if deteriorated

Body & Interior

Convertible top operation, body panels, and interior component service.

Convertible Top: Hydraulic system service, motor replacement procedure

Door Panels: Removal for window regulator and lock mechanism service

Seat Mechanisms: Power seat motor testing and replacement

Trim Pieces: Proper removal techniques to avoid damage

Troubleshooting Guide

Diagnostic Tools: Use Mercedes specific diagnostic equipment for accurate troubleshooting.

Service Support: Contact Mercedes Benz dealer for technical assistance and genuine parts.