Vehicle Segment:
Luxury Mid-Size Sedan with a focus on diesel efficiency and long-distance touring.
Target Audience:
Affluent consumers seeking reliability, comfort, and superior engineering, often used for executive transport or extended travel.
Key Competitors 1986:
BMW 5 Series (e.g., 524td), Audi 100/200 TDI (though less common), Cadillac DeVille diesel variants.
Performance Attributes:
Strong torque delivery from the turbodiesel engine, renowned Mercedes-Benz ride comfort and handling.
Engineering Philosophy:
Built to last, with an emphasis on robust construction, advanced (for the time) engineering, and driver comfort.
Utility For Owners:
Empowers owners and independent mechanics with the knowledge to perform complex repairs and maintenance, extending the vehicle's lifespan and preserving its value.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Comprehensive diagnostic flowcharts and troubleshooting guides for all major systems.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for mechanical, electrical, and body components.
Maintenance Schedules:
Factory-recommended maintenance intervals and procedures for various mileage and time-based services.
Specifications Data:
Extensive technical specifications, including torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, and component dimensions.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle circuits, including component location and color coding.
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 800-1000 pages (typical for a comprehensive factory service manual of this era).
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Digital Format:
Likely PDF (Printable, Searchable)
Engine:
OM603.960 3.0L Inline-6 Turbo Diesel: Engine mechanical, fuel injection system (Bosch VE), lubrication, cooling, emissions control.
Transmission:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (4G-TRONIC): Overhaul, diagnostics, fluid service, control systems.
Brakes:
Hydraulic Brakes with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System): Component description, bleeding procedures, ABS sensor diagnostics, brake pad/rotor replacement.
Suspension:
Independent Front Suspension (Double Wishbone), Multi-link Rear Suspension: Component replacement, alignment specifications, shock absorber/strut service.
Steering:
Power Steering System: Component inspection, leak diagnosis, fluid replacement, steering column service.
Electrical:
Starting System, Charging System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories (windows, locks, seats), Climate Control, Cruise Control, Radio/Audio System.
Body:
Body Panel Repair, Door Mechanism Service, Glass Replacement, Trim Components, Body Sealing.
HVAC:
Automatic Climate Control System: Component testing, refrigerant handling (R-12), blower motor, evaporator/heater core service.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement, coolant flush, transmission fluid service, brake fluid flush.
Engine Overhaul:
Piston/ring replacement, cylinder head removal/installation, camshaft service, valve adjustments (if applicable), crankshaft bearing inspection.
Fuel System Repair:
Fuel injector testing/replacement, fuel pump diagnosis, glow plug system service, injection pump timing and adjustment (requires specialized tools).
Transmission Repair:
Valve body diagnosis, clutch pack replacement, torque converter service, sealing ring replacement.
Brake System Repair:
Brake caliper rebuilding, master cylinder replacement, brake line repair/replacement, ABS hydraulic unit diagnostics.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Component testing using multimeters, tracing electrical faults, diagnosing starter/alternator issues, power window/lock mechanism repair.
HVAC Repair:
Leak detection and repair in the refrigerant system, compressor replacement, blower motor resistor testing, control module diagnosis.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Diagnostic Capability:
Detailed symptom-based troubleshooting guides, likely including oscilloscope wave-form examples for critical electronic components (e.g., fuel injection control).
Special Tool Requirements:
Identification of specialized Mercedes-Benz tools required for certain procedures (e.g., injection pump timing tools, pressure gauges).
Digital Format Details:
Searchable text, ability to print specific sections or the entire manual, high-resolution diagrams and illustrations.
Illustration Quality:
Clear, detailed line drawings, schematics, and photographic illustrations.
Physical Manual Binding:
Likely perfect bound or spiral bound for ease of use on a workbench (if a physical version is described).
Physical Manual Paper:
Durable, high-quality paper stock suitable for workshop environments.
Crash Test Standard Era:
NHTSA/IIHS data from the mid-1980s may be limited compared to modern standards. Focus on passive safety features designed at the time.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Not available on this model.
Airbags:
Driver's airbag (standard from late 1986/early 1987 model year onwards in some markets, optional prior). Passenger airbag not available.
Seat Belts:
3-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, 3-point rear seatbelts.
Body Construction:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones front and rear, side impact beams.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles. Crucial for diesel engine health.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving environment.
Transmission Service:
Every 30,000 - 40,000 miles (fluid and filter change).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
API CD or CE rated, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-30 diesel engine oil. Consult manual for precise viscosity based on ambient temperature.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 7.5 liters (7.9 US quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz specified coolant (e.g., MB 325.0, typically a 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol and distilled water).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Diesel Specific Concerns:
Glow plug issues, injector pump calibration, turbocharger wear, potential for head gasket failure under extreme heat or improper maintenance, fuel line leaks (old rubber hoses).
Electrical Common Failures:
Wiring harness degradation (especially under battery tray and firewall), vacuum line leaks affecting climate control and central locking, headlight switch failures.
Suspension Wear:
Ball joint wear, control arm bushings, rear axle mount bushings (known as 'subframe mounts' or 'dog bones') can degrade, leading to clunking and poor handling.
Climate Control Problems:
Vacuum leaks in the HVAC control system, failing blower motor resistors, refrigerant leaks (R-12).
Rust Prone Areas:
Fender wells, rocker panels, around the sunroof, and trunk lid edges are common areas for rust due to age and environmental exposure.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Established reputation for engineering excellence, durability, and luxury since the early 20th century.
W124 Development:
The W124 chassis (1985-1995) was designed for superior durability, aerodynamics, and safety, setting new benchmarks for the automotive industry.
300Sdl Introduction:
The 300 SDL was introduced as a long-wheelbase variant of the W124, offering enhanced rear passenger legroom and an executive focus, powered by Mercedes-Benz's robust turbodiesel engines.
Production Years:
W124 chassis produced from 1985 to 1995. The 300 SDL variant was primarily offered in North America for the 1986-1987 model years.
Manufacturing Location:
Sindelfingen, West Germany