🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

W123 280E

Model Code:

W123

Chassis Code:

W123

Engine Variant Covered:

280E

Production Years Covered:

1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Do-it-yourselfer and experienced mechanic

Value Proposition:

Inexpensive way to keep vehicle working properly

Advantage:

Comprehensive coverage, detailed illustrations, step-by-step instructions, avoids shipping/wait times

Feature 1:

Complete workshop service manual for W123 280E

Feature 2:

Detailed repair procedures with photos and illustrations

Feature 3:

Troubleshooting and electrical system diagnostics

Feature 4:

Printable and accessible via digital download

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Full Workshop Service Manual

Coverage Scope:

Complete Service and Repair

Applicable Body Styles:

All Styles Covered (Sedan, Coupe, Wagon - assuming 280E was available in these, though primarily sedan)

Estimated Page Count:

Hundreds of Pages (Specific count not provided, but implies comprehensive)

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Delivery Method:

Digital Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete engine overhaul, diagnostics, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system

Transmission:

Automatic and Manual transmission service, repair, and overhaul

Drivetrain:

Driveshafts, differentials, axles, U-joints

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shock absorbers, springs

Steering:

Power steering system, steering linkage, steering column

Brakes:

Brake system components, hydraulic system, power assist, disc and drum brake service, ABS (if applicable for later years)

Electrical:

Complete electrical system diagnostics, wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, accessories

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system (Bosch K-Jetronic), fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, fuel filter

Cooling System:

Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter (if applicable), mufflers, exhaust pipes

Body:

Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, glass, doors, hood, trunk

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system service and repair

Maintenance:

Regular maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues

Repair:

Detailed instructions for component repair and replacement

Overhaul:

Complete disassembly and reassembly procedures for major components

Diagnostics:

Diagnostic procedures for mechanical and electrical systems

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all systems

Depth Of Information:

Complete disassembly of the machine, high level of detail

Instruction Style:

Step-by-step instructions with numbered steps

Illustrations:

Hundreds of photos and illustrations, detailed drawings

Notes Cautions:

Includes notes, cautions, and warnings throughout each chapter

Figure Matching:

Bold figure numbers for easy illustration matching

Inset Details:

Enlarged insets for detailed part examination

Navigation:

Numbered table of contents for fast information retrieval

📊 Manual Specifications

Printability:

Printable without restriction (entire manual or specific pages)

Quality Description:

Professional quality, in-depth

Binding Type Description:

N/A (Digital Download - printable for binding)

Paper Type Description:

N/A (Digital Download - buyer chooses paper type)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC (M110 engine family)

Displacement:

2.8 Liters (2789 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

86.0 mm x 80.25 mm

Compression Ratio:

Approx. 8.0:1 or 8.2:1 (depending on specific model year and market)

Horsepower Gross:

Approx. 182-185 hp @ 5800 rpm (depending on specific model year and market)

Torque Gross:

Approx. 220-225 Nm (162-166 lb-ft) @ 4000 rpm (depending on specific model year and market)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS) Mechanical Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as per manual specification)

Fuel Pump Type:

Mechanical or Electric (depending on year and market)

Ignition System:

Electronic Ignition (breakerless type common)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (optional for some markets/earlier years, but 280E typically featured auto)

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed or 5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Fluid Spec:

Refer to manual for specific ATF specification (e.g., Dexron II)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

2800 mm (110.2 in)

Length:

4725 mm (186.0 in)

Width:

1790 mm (70.5 in)

Height:

1420 mm (55.9 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1450-1550 kg (3197-3417 lbs) depending on configuration

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Refer to manual for specific GVWR

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings Era:

Designed to meet safety standards of its era, though formal crash test ratings as we know them today were less standardized.

Brakes:

Four-wheel disc brakes (standard on 280E)

Steering:

Power steering for improved maneuverability

Construction:

Robust body construction characteristic of Mercedes-Benz engineering

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts (front and often rear)

Driver Protection:

Crumple zones designed for energy absorption

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic analog radio and cassette player (optional features varied by market and trim)

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on mechanical systems like power steering and brakes.

Connectivity Features:

N/A (No electronic connectivity features)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Refer to manual; typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months

Filter Replacement:

Air filter, fuel filter, oil filter as per manual schedule

Spark Plugs:

As per manual schedule, often with ignition system checks

Engine Oil Type:

Refer to manual for viscosity (e.g., 10W-40, 20W-50) and API service classification (e.g., SF or SG)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, refer to manual for specific mix ratio and type

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on system specifics (refer to manual)

Power Steering Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific type (often ATF or hydraulic fluid)

Common Issue 1:

Fuel distributor and accumulator issues with K-Jetronic system

Common Issue 2:

Vacuum leak issues affecting idle and performance

Common Issue 3:

Rust issues, particularly in common Mercedes-Benz areas of the era (wheel arches, door bottoms, etc.)

Common Issue 4:

Age-related degradation of rubber components (hoses, seals, bushings)

Common Issue 5:

Slight oil leaks from engine gaskets common with age

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer Reputation:

Mercedes-Benz renowned for engineering excellence, durability, and luxury

W123 Positioning:

The W123 generation (1976-1985) was a highly successful model, praised for its build quality, reliability, and comfort, often referred to as the 'tank' by enthusiasts.

280E Positioning:

The 280E represented a higher-tier engine option within the W123 lineup, offering superior performance.

Production Period:

1976-1985

Manufacturing Location:

Germany (primary), with some assembly in other locations

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Reputation Awards:

While specific 'awards' for the manual are not detailed, the W123 chassis itself is widely recognized for its durability, build quality, and long-term reliability, often cited in automotive journalism and enthusiast forums as a benchmark for its era.