Experiencing issues with your 1986 Mercedes 560sl, such as stalling, can be frustrating. Many owners begin troubleshooting with the fuel system, and a common starting point is the fuel pump relay. Replacing this relay can often resolve fuel delivery issues and is a straightforward task for the DIY enthusiast. This guide will walk you through accessing and replacing the fuel pump relay in your 1986 Mercedes 560SL, based on the experience of a fellow owner.
For a 1986 Mercedes 560SL, accessing the fuel pump relay is conveniently done through the glove box. Begin by emptying the glove box completely. Locate the access panel inside; it’s approximately 5 inches diagonally and designed for easy removal. Removing this panel reveals the area where the fuel pump relay is situated. For enhanced access, similar to another 560SL owner’s approach, you might consider removing the panels beneath the glove box. Further increasing workspace can be achieved by gently pulling out the HVAC conduit located in this area. This extra room significantly simplifies reaching the relays. It’s important to note that for this procedure on a 1986 Mercedes 560SL, removing the entire glove box is generally not necessary, saving considerable time and effort. The entire relay replacement process can be completed in under 30 minutes, excluding the time needed to comfortably position yourself in the footwell.
With the access panel removed, you can now reach into the area to locate the relays. The first relay you’ll likely encounter is the idle speed relay. The fuel pump relay is positioned nearby. Working with one hand through the access panel and using your other hand from below for leverage, carefully pull out the idle speed relay first, followed by the fuel pump relay.
Before removing the relays, take a moment to note their orientation. This simple step will make reinserting the new relays much easier and ensures correct placement.
Glove Box Access Panel Location (indicated by X)
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HVAC Conduit (removed for better access)
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Fuel Pump Relay (ready for removal)
Fuel Pump Relay
Replacing the fuel pump relay in your 1986 Mercedes 560SL is a manageable DIY task that can potentially resolve fuel system related issues. By following these steps, you can efficiently access and replace the relay, getting you back on the road. If replacing the relay doesn’t solve your issue, further investigation into other fuel system components like the fuel accumulator or fuel pumps might be necessary.
