Need Colored Fuse Box Diagram for 1971 280SL U.S.

[GermanCarScottsdale]

Hello-
We need a fuse box diagram in color for a 1971 280SL U.S.A. version.  The 8/70 diagram here for full members is different than the 12/70 car we are fixing and colors do not match up.  I've done searches but can't come up with anything in color for '71 model year.  Is there such a thing floating around out there?  Thanks for any help!
Mike
German Car
Scottsdale, AZ

[Peter van Es]

The wiring diagram for the late US version is on this page:

http://www.sl113.org/wiki/Electrical/WiringDiagram or directly at 280 SL (US Version) Wiring Diagram

Just underneath it is the color abbreviation table. If you look at the normal 280SL Wiring diagram (or indeed the color version for Full Members), and compare it to the late US diagram, you can use that color table to figure out the colors of the wires you are interested in, except for those that are specific for the emissions control stuff of the US version.

It's a bit of work, but the color wiring diagrams have been painstakingly and manually produced by Joachim Ahlert. We just don't know of a colour coded source for the late US version wiring diagram.

If it is just the fuse box you are interested in, the color version should be applicable. If your wires are colored differently, are you sure the wiring loom has not been replaced?

Peter

[GermanCarScottsdale]

Wiring has not been tampered with according to the same owner since 1973.  Unless the car had re-wire done in it's first 2 years...  We've tried to match up the diagram with what we are working with to the best of our ability, but the colors are still different and in many cases, the color combos we have here are un-accounted for altogether on the color abreviation legend.  We're trying to track down a Mercedes tech binder for 1971 280SL that were given to and used by factory techs, but that's like finding a needle in a haystack!

[Peter van Es]

Well, that sounds very weird. I hope someone can chime in... But I presume the fuse assignments haven't changed... so can't you trace the colors back from that?

Does the Connectors list from the Tech Manual help you identify colours? If you pick a known connector (e.g those of a lighting unit) and compare the wire colors with that in the Connectors list, does it still match up?

Peter

[Peter van Es]

We're trying to track down a Mercedes tech binder for 1971 280SL that were given to and used by factory techs, but that's like finding a needle in a haystack!

You could try sending a PM to one of the following three documentation guru's, pointing them to this thread: 114015, or Jonny B or Dave Gallon.

Peter

[jeffc280sl]

I just updated the tech manual with these diagrams.  The first diagram shows the emission control system.  I cleaned up the diagram so that wiring pinouts for the 6 and 8 pin connector are clear.

The second diagram is a subset of the main wiring diagram also dealing with the emission system.  The speed relay pinouts are clearly identified.  Have not has time to check and add wire colors.  Someday.