[Ears]

I am finally finding time to do a few things I want to the newly-acquired 1997 SL500 that I bought a few weeks ago. I have now set my sights on trying to diagnose a few electrical anomalies.

Previous owner added a python remote start/security/remote central lock system. To date, it works perfectly... thankfully! I say "thankfully", because the only two keys I have are the mickey-mouse key, and flat, master key. I did have a non-transponder master cut for doors, etc (I don't have the original fobs).

here's what doesn't work:
1. ASR Off switch- light does not light up in instrument binnacle when pushed. I haven't had time or conditions to test it physically. The ASR light in the binnacle does light up upon key being turned on before starting...
2. Clock- Dead as a Do-Do...
3. Windows don't roll up/down with the master key turned as prescribed... In fact, only the driver door unlocks (central does not work with master key)
4. Little indicator light on the central vent warm air switch does not light up when pushed...
5. Standing lights, neither left nor right side, work when switched.
6. W/S switch... is there any indication other than visually what position the switch is in? Car seems to be starting off in second gear, or it is weaker than I expected on FT launch (my 560SL would leave two beautiful black ribbons if started off briskly in first gear... this car, nada). When I count the shifts, I count 4, but not sure if the last one is the torque converter lock-up. Seems same regardless if W or S. Can't complain about the MPG... Better than 24 on the highway, and the damn thing SCOOTS!
7. The pagoda light (on the folding top control) does not light up when operated. I have replaced the switch because the original one had a loose red "handle", and the bulb underneath was busted.
8. Neither of the vanity mirrors light up (haven't checked for voltage yet...)

I have looked at the fuse chart, checked many fuses (blade-type, not aluminum bullets), and wiggled quite a few more to no avail. Nothing seems common, at this point, except that the Python system has been added. Also, battery is brand new.

Car is 100% usable/enjoyable as is, but I prefer all systems operational.

Anyone care to opine?

Thanks...

 

[Ruindr]

My first impression is that these bits and pieces are unrelated. I would anyhow start with pulling all the blade fuses, both up front and in trunk, check them all with a multimeter for continuity, spray some CRC or equivalent in the fuse boxes and return all fuses correctly making sure they adhere to the fuse chart when it comes to amp. Then you can rule out that part.

Then take your voltmeter and start digging. I can't see a shortcut. Your main light switch may be worn. Not difficult to replace. vanity lights get 12 v from the clip itself and only when visors are facing down. Bulb in central vent is LED and a bit involved to replace (must be soldered). ASR should throw codes on your OBD II port I believe, I would start there. Same goes for gearbox.

Others with more experience will chime in, I'm sure!

Cheers

 

[SRHsl600]

My experience with transmission is that the car is a second gear launch! I have moved the "stick" to the 2 position and move sideways, and the car will launch, but not deposit rubber on the road. The shift process can then be moved number by number to return to "D".
bobterry99 may have sage advice about electrical, but I agree Ruindr that the process is step by step since you don't have the fusse continuity issue that "bullet" Al fuses had.
Sounds like a fun future The 107 was an excellent ship too.

 

[my500benz]

OP: Regarding the W/S switch, you have the 722.6 electronically controlled 5-speed automatic -- which means that in "W" mode you start in second gear, and in "S" mode you start in first gear. If it's working properly, that is. No visual indication aside from the position of the switch. "W" is kinda fun to experiment with (I think of W acceleration as akin to an elevator lifting off from the ground floor), but "S" is the first-gear start that most drivers would prefer. You should notice a pretty profound difference in acceleration.

In terms of leaving stripes simply by flooring it, however, even "S" doesn't give you a lot of immediate torque off the line in the SL500. I imagine you'd have to do a brake-stand to achieve your desired result. As you've noticed, the engine comes into its own at higher RPM. My experience is that the SL600 is the one that'll smoke 'em from a standstill, or try to (I see a lot more of the ASR light now than I did in the 500).

It's interesting that the 560SL leaves rubber that easily. Never driven one. I'm guessing the SOHC M117 is more of a traditional V8 in that it flourishes at low RPM and tapers off toward the top.

 

[RKH]

'W' is winter mode, not only it starts in 2nd gear, it also reduces power to prevent wheel spin etc.

 

[wlb50]

8. The vanity mirrors have a torpedo-type bulb - but the bad news is you have to pry out the mirror assembly from the visor (best to to remove the visor) and if you haven't been aware of it yet, that crappy plastic makes you nervous. If you ruin the visor....they are very expensive.

IIRC when I installed new vanity mirrors I used a pick with a hook to crab it and pull it out of the visor.Before you try that maybe try come contact cleaner on the part of the visor that clasps to the "lock?" I doubt that it would help but it is worth a try, assuming that the fuse is good.

I find it hard to believe both bulbs would be out - but you have checked all of the fuses?

 

[Ruindr]

6. W/S switch... is there any indication other than visually what position the switch is in? Car seems to be starting off in second gear, or it is weaker than I expected on FT launch (my 560SL would leave two beautiful black ribbons if started off briskly in first gear... this car, nada). When I count the shifts, I count 4, but not sure if the last one is the torque converter lock-up. Seems same regardless if W or S. Can't complain about the MPG... Better than 24 on the highway, and the damn thing SCOOTS!

You might want to try to reset your shiftpoints as a start. Very easy and noticable change in behaviour:

BTW - if you haven't checked out Fupabox' youtube channel yet I can recommend it. A large number of good DIY videos. Not the same quality productions as Kent Bergsma of Mercedessource make, but still educational.

Good luck.

 

[Ears]

Guys,
Thanks for the opinions and guidance as I navigate the foibles and idiosyncrasies of the 129... I look forward to the journey.

(I tried to reply twice from my phone, but...nada)