Experiencing issues with your Mercedes Benz, like unexpected stalling, can be frustrating. If you’re troubleshooting fuel delivery problems, especially in models like the classic 560SL, checking the fuel pump relay is a crucial step. Often, this relatively inexpensive part can be the culprit behind fuel system malfunctions. This guide will walk you through accessing and replacing the fuel pump relay in a Mercedes Benz 560SL, potentially saving you time and money.
Accessing the Fuel Pump Relay in Your Mercedes Benz 560SL
For the ’87 560SL, accessing the fuel pump relay is surprisingly straightforward. Start by emptying your glove box. You’ll find a small access panel, approximately 5 inches diagonally, that can be removed. Removing this panel reveals the location of the relays.
For even easier access, and following a tip from other Mercedes enthusiasts, you can remove the panels located below the glove box. Additionally, gently pulling out the HVAC conduit provides even more room to work. Don’t worry, you typically do not need to remove the entire glove box assembly to reach the fuel pump relay. This method allows you to access the relays in under 30 minutes, excluding the time it might take to comfortably position yourself in the footwell!
Glove Box Access Panel (X marks the spot)
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Conduit I Removed:
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Step-by-Step Fuel Pump Relay Replacement
Once you have accessed the relay area, you’ll likely see two relays: the idle speed relay and the fuel pump relay. Working with one hand through the access panel and the other from below for leverage, you can carefully pull out the relays one at a time. It’s advisable to remove the idle speed relay first to gain better access to the fuel pump relay.
Before removing them completely, take a moment to note the orientation of each relay. This will make reinstallation much easier. With the old fuel pump relay removed, simply insert the new relay in the correct orientation until it is firmly seated.
The Relay I Remove (yes, it had tape on it!):
Mercedes Benz 560SL fuel pump relay removed, showing tape on relay
Conclusion
Replacing the fuel pump relay in your Mercedes Benz 560SL can be a quick and easy DIY task. By utilizing the glove box access panel and taking your time, you can potentially resolve fuel delivery issues and get your classic Mercedes back on the road. Remember to always double-check part compatibility for your specific model year. For more Mercedes Benz repair tips and quality parts, visit benzxentry.store.
