Description
Factory Mercedes 380 SLC Workshop Manual (1980–1981)
This official factory-level repair manual covers the Mercedes-Benz 380 SLC in full, giving US-market owners and technicians everything needed to service and restore this iconic C107 coupe to factory specification.
Powertrain & Drive Coverage
| Component | Variants Covered |
|---|---|
| Petrol | M116 3.8L V8 (Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection, ~155 hp US-spec) |
| Diesel | N/A |
| Transmissions | 4-speed automatic with torque converter |
| Drive | RWD |
| Model Years | 1980–1981 |
| Badge Twins | R107 SL roadster (shared C107/R107 platform) |
Common 380 SLC Repairs Covered
| System | Procedures |
|---|---|
| M116 Timing Chain | Timing chain replacement, tensioner service, and upper/lower guide rail inspection — a known wear item on the M116 V8 |
| K-Jetronic Fuel Injection | Warm-up regulator testing, fuel distributor service, cold-start injector diagnosis, and control pressure adjustment |
| Automatic Transmission | Valve body removal and service, band adjustment, torque converter inspection, and fluid/filter replacement intervals |
| Rust & Body Sealing | Floor pan seam sealing, sunroof drain channel inspection, and body panel repair procedures for this age-prone C107 structure |
Format & Delivery
PDF. Instant download; lifetime re-downloads.
Frequently Asked Questions
What chassis platform does the 380 SLC use?
The 380 SLC rides on Mercedes-Benz’s C107 platform, which is the fixed-pillar coupe variant of the R107 SL roadster. It shares its floorpan, drivetrain, and many mechanical components with the concurrent 380 SL, but rides on a 14-inch longer wheelbase to accommodate a small rear seat. This manual covers the C107 380 SLC specifically for the 1980–1981 model years.
Is the M116 timing chain a known problem area?
Yes. The aluminum-block M116 3.8L V8 uses a duplex timing chain that stretches over time, and the plastic guide rails can crack and shed debris into the oil pan. The manual includes complete step-by-step procedures for chain and tensioner replacement, rail inspection, and correct reassembly torque values — essential preventive maintenance on any high-mileage example.
Does the manual cover the Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection in detail?
Absolutely. The K-Jetronic system used on the US-specification 380 SLC is covered in depth, including fuel distributor service, control pressure and system pressure testing, warm-up regulator replacement, cold-start injector diagnosis, and the associated electrical circuits. Fuel delivery specifications and adjustment procedures are all documented to factory standards.
What format is the manual?
This manual is delivered as a PDF file, available for instant download immediately after purchase. It is fully searchable, compatible with any standard PDF reader on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, or Linux devices, and individual pages can be printed for workshop use. Your download link remains active for lifetime re-access.
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