Positioning:
The flagship luxury sedan of its era, representing Mercedes-Benz's commitment to engineering excellence, comfort, and safety.
Competitors:
Competed with other high-end luxury sedans of the period such as BMW 7 Series (E23), Cadillac Eldorado, Jaguar XJ, and various high-trim American sedans.
Features:
Robust build quality, sophisticated engineering, powerful V8 engine, comfortable ride, advanced safety features for its time, elegant styling.
Manual Advantage:
Enables owners to perform DIY maintenance and repairs, saving significant labor costs compared to dealership service.
Manual Usability:
Designed for ease of use, with numbered instructions, detailed illustrations, and a clear table of contents to quickly locate information.
Systems:
General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Suspension, Periodic Lubrication, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection/Fuel System, Emission System, Heater/Air Conditioning, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Interior, Differential/Drive, Axle
Engine Control System Detail:
Detailed coverage of the Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection system, ignition system, and related engine management components.
Brake System Detail:
Comprehensive details on the four-wheel disc brake system, including hydraulic components, calipers, pads, rotors, and parking brake.
Cooling System Detail:
Covers radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant recovery system (if applicable), and fan operation.
Suspension Detail:
Includes front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, and alignment procedures.
Fuel Injection Detail:
Covers the intricacies of the K-Jetronic system, including fuel distributors, pressure regulators, injectors, and associated sensors.
Procedures:
Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Repair, Rebuild, Refurbishment, Restoration, Diagnostics, Tuning
Engine Repair Procedures:
Engine disassembly, reassembly, valve adjustments, timing chain replacement, piston and ring service, cylinder head repair.
Transmission Repair Procedures:
Automatic transmission overhaul, fluid and filter changes, valve body diagnosis, and external adjustments.
Steering System Repair:
Detailed procedures for steering gearbox, tie rods, steering linkages, and power steering pump service.
Lubrication Schedule:
Detailed periodic lubrication points and recommended lubricants for various chassis and suspension components.
Depth:
Complete official factory information, detailed step-by-step instructions, advanced troubleshooting guide, professional technician level
Electrical Diagnostics:
In-depth coverage of the electrical system, including detailed wiring diagrams, troubleshooting guides for common electrical faults, and component testing.
Chassis Body Repair:
Information on body panel repairs, structural components, door and window mechanisms, and interior trim removal/installation.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive and detailed wiring diagrams essential for diagnosing and repairing electrical issues, color-coded for clarity.
General Intervals:
While specific factory intervals are detailed in the manual, typical for this era include: Oil changes every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km), major services every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km).
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 depending on climate, API SF or SG specification recommended).
Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific type (e.g., Dexron II or equivalent specification).
Coolant:
Glycol-based antifreeze/coolant concentrate (e.g., MB Approved).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific type, likely a hydraulic fluid or ATF compatible with the steering system.
Common Issues:
Rust susceptibility (especially wheel wells, door bottoms), vacuum hose degradation affecting climate control and central locking, aging fuel injection components, potential for hydraulic system issues (suspension, power steering), oil leaks from gaskets and seals.
Climate Control Issues:
The complex vacuum-operated climate control system is prone to leaks from aging hoses, affecting temperature regulation and air distribution.
Filter Oil:
Examples: Mann-Filter W920/10, Bosch 0986452033 (refer to manual or parts catalog for exact fitment).
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality, durable, and technologically advanced vehicles, particularly in the luxury segment.
Evolution:
The W116 was the first Mercedes-Benz sedan to be officially designated as an 'S-Class' (Sonderklasse - Special Class), setting the standard for future S-Class generations. It replaced the W108/W109 series.
Design Philosophy:
The W116 represented Mercedes-Benz's focus on safety, durability, and technological advancement, embodying the concept of a 'built to last' automobile.
Production Years:
1972-1980 (W116 platform). The 450 SE variant was produced within this range, with the specified manual covering 1973-1976.
Manufacturing Location:
Germany
