Covered Years:
1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (specific number not provided, but described as 'complete')
Type:
Factory Service and Repair Manual
Format:
PDF (Digital Download)
Engine:
Yes (including oil/filter, valve clearance, injection timing, fuel filter, air filter, V-belts, intake/exhaust, spark plugs, cooling system)
Transmission:
Yes (Manual and Automatic transmission fluid changes, level checks, filter changes for automatic)
Brakes:
Yes (fluid level, lines, pads/discs, parking brake, fluid replacement, brake testing)
Suspension:
Yes (front axle oil, ball joints, rear axle oil, rear axle mount, level control, ADS, 4MATIC, self-leveling suspension)
Steering:
Yes (power steering fluid, steering play, steering bolts)
Electrical:
Yes (warning lamps, battery fluid, headlamp/exterior lamps, wiper/washer systems)
Bodywork:
Yes (suspension and body structure inspection, water leakage, corrosion, door hinges/locks, sunroof, soft top, hood, paint damage, noise encapsulation)
HVAC:
Yes (cooling/heating system, dust filter, active charcoal filter, recirculating air filter, AC refrigerant charge)
Fuel System:
Yes (fuel filter, injection timing, fuel system condition)
Maintenance:
Yes (routine oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements, belt tensioning, lubrication)
Troubleshooting:
Implied through diagnostic steps and component inspection
Repair:
Yes (detailed instructions for component replacement and adjustment)
Inspection:
Yes (comprehensive inspection procedures for various systems and components)
Depth:
Factory-level, comprehensive (covers detailed repair and maintenance as used by dealers)
Engine Type:
Inline 5-cylinder, Turbocharged Diesel
Displacement:
3.0 Liters (2998 cc)
Horsepower:
Approx. 125 hp @ 4350 rpm (varies slightly by year and specific market)
Torque:
Approx. 230 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm (varies slightly by year and specific market)
Injection System:
Bosch Inline Fuel Injection Pump
Valve Adjustment Interval:
Typically every 15,000 - 25,000 miles or as needed (covered in manual)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (4G-TRONIC)
Optional Transmission:
Not typically offered in the US market for the 300 SD Turbo; primarily automatic
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Specify MB 236.3 (e.g., Dexron II/III compatible, refer to manual for exact spec)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 8-10 liters (check dipstick with engine running at operating temp)
Length:
Approx. 198.9 inches (5052 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.5 inches (1791 mm)
Height:
Approx. 56.1 inches (1425 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,700 - 3,900 lbs (1680 - 1770 kg)
Crash Test Results:
No modern standardized crash test ratings available from IIHS/NHTSA for this era. Known for robust construction.
Anti Lock Brakes:
Available on some later models within this range, not standard on all.
Seatbelts:
Standard front and rear seatbelts (manual specifies inspection).
Crumple Zones:
Yes, advanced for its time.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, power antenna.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog gauges, oil pressure, temperature, fuel, tachometer, speedometer, odometer, trip odometer, warning lamps.
Cruise Control:
Yes, standard.
Automatic Climate Control:
Yes, often equipped with a sophisticated climate control system.
Original Connectivity:
N/A (pre-digital era)
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to manual; typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Refer to manual; typically every 30,000-60,000 miles
Engine Oil Type:
API CD or higher, specific viscosity grade (e.g., 15W-40 or 20W-50 depending on climate, refer to manual).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, refer to manual for specific MB approval.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for exact specification).
Common Problems:
Vacuum system leaks, climate control issues, hydro-pneumatic suspension (if equipped) leaks, injector pump seals, glow plug system, rust in common Mercedes areas (wheel arches, rocker panels).
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Renowned for engineering excellence, durability, and luxury.
W126 Development:
Successor to the W116, featuring significantly improved aerodynamics, safety, and comfort. The 300 SD Turbo was a key model for Mercedes-Benz's diesel offerings in North America.
Manufacturing Location:
Germany
