Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, Mercedes-Benz owners
Value Proposition:
Inexpensive way to maintain and repair the vehicle, provides dealer-level information
Alternative Sources:
Dealer Service Department, other aftermarket manuals (e.g., Haynes, Chilton - typically less comprehensive)
Completeness:
Covers all diagnostic and repair procedures, often referred to as a Factory Service Manual (FSM)
Usability:
Printable pages for garage use, detailed illustrations
Engine Mechanical:
Yes (Removal/Installation, Crankcase, Cylinder Head, Engine Breathing, Crank Assembly, Timing, Valves)
Engine Fuel System:
Yes (Diesel Injection System, Carburetor System, Mechanically/Electronically Controlled Gasoline Injection)
Engine Lubrication:
Yes (Lubrication, Oil Cooler)
Engine Cooling:
Yes (Cooling System, Hoses, Radiator)
Engine Electrical:
Yes (Ignition System, Preheating System, Starter, Alternator)
Engine Intake Exhaust:
Yes (Air Cleaner, Intake Manifold, Exhaust Manifold, Emission Control)
Transmission Manual:
Yes (Manual Transmission, Power Take-offs)
Transmission Automatic:
Yes (Automatic Transmission)
Drivetrain:
Yes (Propeller Shaft, Transfer Case)
Suspension:
Yes (Suspension, Front Axle, Rear Axle, Trailing Axle)
Brakes:
Yes (Hydraulic/Mechanical System, Pneumatic System, Auxiliary Brakes)
Fuel System:
Yes (Fuel System)
Exhaust System:
Yes (Exhaust System, Heat Shield)
Electrical Body:
Yes (Equipment/Instruments, Speed Control, Radio, Washer System, Light Range Regulator)
Body Structural:
Yes (Frame, Understructure, Front End, Front Wall, Side Wall, Rear Wall, Roof)
Body Exterior:
Yes (Glass/Windows, Doors, Trunk Lid, Fuel Flap, Slide Roof, Attachments, Outside Flaps)
Body Interior:
Yes (Interior Equipment, Seats, Restraint Systems, Sound Insulation, Body Sealing)
Climate Control:
Yes (Climate Control)
Safety Equipment:
Yes (Emergency Equipment)
Maintenance:
Yes (Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements)
Repair:
Yes (Component Removal, Installation, Rebuild, Refurbishment)
Diagnostics:
Yes (All Diagnostic Procedures Covered)
Adjustments:
Yes (Throttle Linkage, Regulating Shafts, Accelerator Pedal)
Restoration:
Yes (Comprehensive Restoration Guidance)
Depth:
Comprehensive (Dealer Level)
Illustrations:
Detailed Illustrations
Instructions:
Step-by-Step Instructions
Engine Type:
Inline-6 Cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
2.8 Liters (2799 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
86.0 mm x 80.25 mm (approximate)
Compression Ratio:
8.3:1 (typical for M110.984)
Horsepower:
182 hp @ 5800 rpm (SAE Gross, typical for US spec)
Torque:
177 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (SAE Gross, typical for US spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS - Continuous Injection System)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91-93 Octane recommended)
Cooling Type:
Liquid-Cooled
Oil Capacity:
7.5 Liters (8 US Quarts)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000 to 15,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (24,000 to 48,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG or higher; SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 recommended (consult specific manual for exact OEM recommendation, e.g., MB 228.1).
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze/coolant (e.g., MB 325.0 or equivalent) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
MB 236.1 (Dexron II or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common W123 Issues:
Rust (wheel arches, door bottoms, jacking points), vacuum leaks (central locking, climate control), fuel distributor issues (K-Jetronic), aging rubber components (hoses, mounts), ignition system components.
Brand Philosophy:
Engineering excellence, durability, and safety
W123 Introduction:
Introduced in 1975 as a successor to the W114/W115, known for its robust construction and longevity.
280Ce Positioning:
The 280CE was a premium, sporty coupé variant, representing the pinnacle of luxury and performance within the W123 range for its time.
Production Period:
1976-1985 (W123 Series); 280CE produced from 1977 onwards.
Manufacturing Location:
Germany