Target Audience:
Owners of Mercedes-Benz 380 SE (W126) seeking to perform maintenance, repairs, or restoration
Era Competitors:
BMW 7 Series (E23), Jaguar XJ6, Audi V8 Quattro, Cadillac Eldorado
Vehicle Selling Points:
Renowned Mercedes-Benz build quality, V8 power, sophisticated ride, and elegant styling
Manual Value Proposition:
Comprehensive coverage empowering owners to confidently maintain and repair their classic Mercedes-Benz, saving on dealership costs
Primary Coverage:
Service and Repair
Specific Topics:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Brakes, Electrical, Body, HVAC, Fuel System, Cooling System
Estimated Pages:
Likely over 1000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals of this era)
Type:
Service Repair Manual
Digital Format:
PDF / WINRAR
Operating Systems:
Win95/98/ME/XP/vista/7/8/Linux/MAC, iOS, Android
Engine:
M116 3.8L V8, including maintenance, diagnostics, and overhaul procedures
Fuel System:
Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS) fuel injection system, including fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulators, and troubleshooting
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, heater core, and refrigerant charge
Ignition System:
Spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor, and ignition timing adjustments
Transmission:
4-speed automatic transmission (722.3 series), including fluid changes, filter replacement, and general maintenance
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive, driveshaft flexible coupling inspection
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, ball joints, shock absorbers, bushings, and level control systems (if equipped)
Brakes:
Hydraulic disc brakes, brake fluid replacement, pad and rotor inspection, parking brake system, and ABS (if equipped)
Steering:
Power steering system, fluid level checks, steering play adjustment, and steering column components
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, gauges, warning lamps, and wiring schematics
Body And Chassis:
Body structure inspection, water leakage, corrosion, panel removal/installation, hinges, locks, and glass
HVAC:
Heating and ventilation system, AC refrigerant charge, dust filters, and cabin air filters
Interior:
Seat adjustment, safety belts, sunroof operation, and interior trim components
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks such as oil and filter changes, fluid level checks, belt inspections, and spark plug replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, including detailed symptom analysis and step-by-step fault finding
Repair:
Detailed instructions for component replacement, overhaul, and adjustment for all major vehicle systems
Rebuilding:
Comprehensive procedures for engine and transmission rebuilding, including detailed specifications and tolerances
Refurbishment Restoration:
Guidance on restoring various vehicle components and systems to their original specifications
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic steps for all major systems, often referencing specific tools or test procedures
Level Of Detail:
High; covers procedures for both basic maintenance and advanced repairs, suitable for professional technicians
Visual Aids:
Includes diagrams, illustrations, and wiring schematics to clarify procedures
Specifications:
Provides detailed technical specifications, torque values, fluid capacities, and diagnostic parameters
Configuration:
3.8L (3839 cc) SOHC V8
Bore X Stroke:
86.0 mm x 80.25 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.3:1 (typical for US market)
Horsepower:
155-160 hp @ 4500 rpm (US market, depending on year and emissions regulations)
Torque:
203-210 lb-ft @ 2500-3000 rpm (US market)
Injection Type:
Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS) Continuous Injection System
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Valve Adjustment:
Hydraulic valve lifters, typically do not require routine adjustment, but clearance checking is outlined.
Ignition Timing Spec:
Refer to manual for specific base timing and advance curves (e.g., 7.5 degrees BTDC at idle for 1985 380 SE)
Oil Change Interval Miles:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 12 months (refer to manual for exact recommended interval based on driving conditions)
Transmission Fluid Interval Miles:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (fluid and filter change highly recommended, though some sources suggest longer intervals; consult manual for specific Mercedes-Benz recommendations for the 722.3)
Coolant Change Interval Miles:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (depending on coolant type)
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 recommended (check manual for specific viscosity and MB approval if applicable)
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual, typically high-quality synthetic brake fluid)
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
MB 236.3 or equivalent hydraulic fluid (refer to manual)
Wiring Harness Degradation:
Common issue in older Mercedes-Benz vehicles where insulation on wiring harnesses can become brittle and degrade, leading to electrical faults.
K Jetronic Fuel System:
Can be sensitive to fuel quality and contamination; issues may include rough idle, stalling, or starting problems. Overhaul of fuel distributor or control pressure regulator may be needed.
Automatic Transmission Issues:
The 722.3 transmission is generally robust, but leaks, torque converter issues, or clutch pack wear can occur with age and mileage.
Suspected Leaks:
Common areas for oil and coolant leaks include valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, coolant hoses, and the front timing cover.
Suspension Wear:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings are wear items that can affect steering and ride quality.