1989 Mercedes-Benz 560SL Service Manual

1989 Mercedes-Benz 560SL Technical Documentation

• Built for owners and professional workshops servicing the 1989 Mercedes-Benz 560SL, 420SEL, 560SEL, and 560SEC variants with 4.2L or 5.6L V8 engines
• Official Mitchell Repair Information Company publication, copyright 1998, documenting the 1989 engine and A/C systems
• Contains 14 detailed technical diagrams, including cylinder head tightening sequences and A/C compressor clutch assemblies
• 100 pages of text and illustrations detailing engine identification, R&I procedures, and diagnostic checks
• Indexed PDF search covers every chapter and appendix
• Laid out for standard letter and A4 printing
• This 1989 edition serves as the foundational data source for 116.965, 117.968, and 117.967 engine family service and component identification

Engine and Component Service Overview

This Mercedes-Benz 560SL technical manual documents essential procedures for the 1989 V8 engine range, including 420SEL, 560SEC, 560SEL, and 560SL models. The document outlines removal and installation processes for the engine assembly, intake and exhaust manifolds, and cylinder heads, highlighting the requirement for specialized Allen wrenches when servicing head bolts. Extensive coverage is provided for timing chain maintenance, valve timing adjustments via offset Woodruff keys, and the inspection of crankshaft main and connecting rod bearings.

Additional chapters provide detailed instructions for A/C compressor servicing across various units, including Nippondenso, Diesel Kiki, Harrison, and Hitachi variants. This segment details clutch R&I, shaft seal replacement, and refrigerant oil capacity requirements for proper climate control system operation. System diagnostics for the automatic heater setup are also included, featuring impulse readout testing for sensors, vacuum diagrams for airflow control, and wiring schematics.

Specification Highlights and Data

Technical data provided includes specific torque values for engine assembly and comprehensive clearances for rotating components. Cylinder head bolt torque is documented in a multi-stage sequence, while main bearing clearances are specified at 0.0018–0.0033 inches (0.045–0.084 mm). The coolant system capacity for these engines is noted at 8.5 quarts. Reference values for ignition and timing sensors ensure precise performance tuning.

Valve clearance for intake valves is established during checking with hydraulic lifter removal, while valve spring pressure data is documented for both closed and open states. The ignition system data includes firing order information and coil specifications. This 100-page document provides a complete technical profile for the 1989 Mercedes-Benz 560SL, 420SEL, 560SEL, and 560SEC, documenting engine, chassis, and climate control specifications for the 116 and 117-series V8 engine family.