Target Audience:
Mercedes-Benz W126 SEL owners, independent repair shops, automotive enthusiasts
Vehicle Segment:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Value Proposition:
Provides dealership-level diagnostic and repair information, enabling DIY maintenance and reducing reliance on expensive professional services.
Unique Selling Points:
Vehicle-specific, step-by-step instructions, detailed diagrams and schematics, comprehensive A-Z coverage, digital format for ease of use and preservation.
Primary Coverage:
Complete Service and Repair
Model Variants Covered:
All W126 SEL models for 1982
Scope:
A-Z (from basic maintenance to complex repairs), covering all aspects of the vehicle's mechanical and electrical systems.
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (typically 1000+ pages for comprehensive factory manuals)
Type:
Factory Service and Repair Manual
Digital Features:
Searchable, Printable, Zoomable Images
Digital Distribution:
Delivered as a downloadable file for immediate access.
Powertrain:
Engine overhaul, fuel system, ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions control, exhaust systems
Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission service and repair, driveshafts, differential, axle shafts
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system (including power steering), brakes (hydraulic, parking brake), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Complete wiring schematics, starting and charging system, lighting, instruments, accessories, fuse/relay identification, diagnostic procedures
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, mirrors, seats, interior trim, climate control (HVAC), supplemental restraint systems (SRS - if applicable to '82 model, though likely limited or absent), seat belts
Interior Comfort:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, power accessories (windows, locks, seats, sunroof), seat belts, and supplemental restraint systems (where applicable, though unlikely for '82).
Body And Trim:
Exterior body panel alignment and repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, seals, interior trim panel removal and installation.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication points
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic codes (if applicable), symptom-based diagnosis
Repair:
Component removal, installation, adjustment, and overhaul for all major systems
Technical Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid types and capacities, electrical resistance, performance data
Troubleshooting:
Systematic approaches to diagnosing problems in all covered systems, including electrical faults, engine performance issues, and climate control malfunctions.
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for removing and installing virtually every component of the vehicle, from minor sensors to major drivetrain assemblies.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical system diagnostics and repair.
Searchability:
Text within the PDF is searchable, allowing quick access to specific topics or part numbers.
Feature:
All pages are printable for on-site use; images can be enlarged for detail.
Physical Format:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Digital Storage:
Stored on PC, reducing wear and tear compared to physical manuals.
Operating Systems:
Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac compatible
Software:
Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip (free online)
Engine Code Typical:
M116 (for 3.8L V8) or M117 (for 5.0L V8, common in SEL models of this era)
Engine Configuration:
V8 SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement Liters:
Typically 5.0 Liters (for SEL, corresponding to 500SEL) or 3.8 Liters (for 380SEL)
Horsepower Approximate:
Approximately 177-230 hp depending on engine size and market specifications
Torque Approximate:
Approximately 240-320 lb-ft depending on engine size and market specifications
Injection Type:
Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS - Continuous Injection System) mechanical fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Components:
Fuel distributor, air flow meter, warm-up regulator, fuel injectors, cold start valve.
Crash Test Era Compliance:
Designed to meet safety standards of its era; ABS became widely available towards the end of the W126 generation.
ABS Availability:
Optional, depending on specific production date and market. Not standard on all 1982 models.
Airbags:
Not available on 1982 models. Driver airbag introduced later in the W126 generation.
Seat Belts:
Standard front and rear seat belts; pre-tensioners may have been optional or introduced later.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM cassette player, often with optional amplifier and advanced speaker systems for the era.
Cruise Control:
Standard feature on SEL models, utilizing vacuum or electronic actuation.
Multiplex Can Communication:
N/A. Vehicle architecture predates CAN bus systems. Communication is primarily via dedicated wiring harnesses and analog/digital signals.
Oil Change Miles:
Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or annually (refer to manual for exact specifications).
Major Service Miles:
Major services often recommended at 30,000, 60,000, and 100,000-mile intervals, including spark plugs, fuel filter, air filter, and transmission service.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 often recommended, depending on climate (e.g., Mobil 1 15W-50 was a popular choice for these engines).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., Mercedes-Benz PN 000 989 08 25 or equivalent) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Fuel System:
Aging fuel lines and K-Jetronic components can lead to leaks or performance issues. Warm-up regulator issues.
Suspension:
Worn ball joints, control arm bushings, and self-leveling suspension components (if equipped, though less common on early models) can cause ride quality issues.
Electrical:
Aging wiring harnesses (especially insulation breakdown), vacuum hose degradation, and faulty climate control head units are common.
Climate Control:
HVAC blower motor issues, vacuum leaks in the control system, and refrigerant leaks.
Engine:
Oil leaks from the timing cover or valve cover gaskets, piston ring wear leading to oil consumption.
Brakes:
Routinely check brake fluid level and condition, caliper condition, and rotor wear. Early ABS systems, if present, require specialized diagnostics.
Manufacturer:
Mercedes-Benz, renowned for engineering excellence and luxury vehicles.
W126 Generation Introduction:
The W126 S-Class generation was introduced in late 1979 for the 1980 model year, replacing the W116. The SEL represents the long-wheelbase variant.
Production Period:
W126 generation produced from 1979 to 1991.
Manufacturing Location:
Germany (primarily Sindelfingen plant)
