🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

W116

Model Variant 1:

280 S

Model Variant 2:

280 SE

Model Variant 3:

300 SD

Model Variant 4:

450 SE

Model Variant 5:

450 SEL

Chassis Code:

W116

Engine Code 280 S Se:

M110

Engine Code 300 Sd:

OM617

Engine Code 450 Se Sel:

M117

Production Years:

1973-1980

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Premium executive sedan of its era, representing Mercedes-Benz's commitment to engineering excellence and luxury

Competitors:

Competed with luxury sedans from BMW (E23 7 Series), Jaguar (XJ), and Cadillac (Fleetwood)

Design Philosophy:

Robust build quality, superior ride comfort, advanced engineering, and safety features for its time

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides in-depth technical knowledge identical to factory-issued manuals, enabling DIY repairs and informed maintenance.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive repair, servicing, and troubleshooting

Vehicle Specific Coverage:

Mercedes-Benz W116 chassis variants: 280 S, 280 SE, 300 SD, 450 SE, 450 SEL

Estimated Pages:

Hundreds of pages (exact count not specified, but described as extensive)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English (implied by description and typical manual content)

Format:

PDF Download

Usage License:

Lifetime use on unlimited devices, no expiry dates, no renewal fees

Compatibility:

Windows and MAC computers

Print Options:

Print single pages or entire manual

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, lubrication system (specific details for M110, OM617, M117 engines)

Transmission:

Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, repair, and diagnostics

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, differential, axles, and related components

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems, steering components, shock absorbers, springs

Brakes:

Brake system components, hydraulic lines, calipers, rotors, master cylinder, parking brake

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, central locking

Body And Chassis:

Bodywork repair, rust prevention, interior trim, glass replacement, door mechanisms

Climate Control:

HVAC system diagnosis and repair (if applicable to model variants)

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault finding guides

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems

Rebuilds:

Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for replacing parts such as pumps, alternators, fuel injectors, etc.

Adjustment:

Carburetor/fuel injection adjustment, ignition timing, valve clearance (where applicable)

Depth:

Professional-level diagnostics and repair, suitable for enthusiasts and mechanics

Diagrams And Illustrations:

Hundreds of detailed photos and exploded diagrams for clarity

Torque Specifications:

Includes critical torque values for fasteners across all systems

Clearances:

Specifications for essential clearances (e.g., valve lash, spark plug gap)

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Resolution:

High-resolution, suitable for clear printing of text and diagrams

Binding:

Digital download (not a physical book, so no traditional binding)

Paper Type:

Digital (printable on user's choice of paper)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC

Displacement:

2.8 Liters (2789 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

86.0 mm x 80.25 mm

Fuel System:

Bosch D-Jetronic fuel injection (SE models) or Carburetor (S models)

Horsepower Approx:

185 PS (182 hp) for SE, lower for S models

Torque Approx:

240 Nm (177 lb-ft) for SE

Engine Type:

Inline 5-cylinder, SOHC, Diesel

Displacement:

3.0 Liters (3005 cc)

Fuel System:

Bosch inline injection pump, indirect injection

Horsepower Approx:

125 PS (123 hp) at 4350 rpm

Torque Approx:

228 Nm (168 lb-ft) at 2400 rpm

Engine Type:

V8, SOHC

Displacement:

4.5 Liters (4520 cc)

Fuel System:

Bosch D-Jetronic fuel injection

Horsepower Approx:

225 PS (222 hp) at 5000 rpm

Torque Approx:

378 Nm (279 lb-ft) at 3000 rpm

🔧 Transmission

450 Se Sel:

3-speed automatic (4G-Tronic - 722.1)

280 S:

4-speed manual

280 Se:

4-speed automatic

300 Sd:

4-speed automatic

Automatic Transmission:

Hydraulic torque converter, planetary gear sets, hydraulic control unit.

📐 Dimensions

280 S Se 450 Se:

Approx. 4960 mm (195.3 in)

450 Sel 300 Sd Longwheelbase:

Approx. 5045 mm (198.6 in)

All Models:

Approx. 1800 mm (70.9 in)

All Models:

Approx. 1420 mm (55.9 in)

Short Wheelbase:

Approx. 2850 mm (112.2 in)

Long Wheelbase:

Approx. 2935 mm (115.6 in)

Curb Weight Approx:

1600-1800 kg (3527-3968 lbs), varies by model and equipment

🛡️ Safety Features

Brakes:

Hydraulic power-assisted disc brakes (front and rear), ABS available on later models

Steering:

Power-assisted recirculating ball steering

Construction:

Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones, safety steering column

Seat Belts:

Front and rear seat belts, some models with pre-tensioners

Crash Safety:

Designed to high safety standards of the era, with significant structural integrity.

💡 Technology Features

Radio:

Factory-installed AM/FM radio with optional cassette player. Often upgraded by owners.

Sound System:

Basic speaker systems, no complex digital integration.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) became available as an option on later models.

Connectivity Features:

Limited to analog systems; no Bluetooth or integrated navigation.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions.

Filter Replacement:

Oil filter with every oil change. Fuel filter and air filter typically every 15,000-30,000 miles.

Engine Oil:

API SG or higher, viscosity varies by temperature (e.g., 10W-40, 15W-40, 20W-50). Consult manual for precise grades.

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically 50/50 mix with distilled water. MB approval 325.0 or similar.

Transmission Fluid Auto:

Dexron II or equivalent (e.g., MB 236.2). Capacity approx. 7-9 liters.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific type). Fluid should be flushed and replaced every 2 years.

Common Problems:

Rust on body panels (wheel arches, sills, window frames), vacuum leaks (affecting central locking, HVAC, engine idle), aging rubber hoses and mounts, fuel injection system (D-Jetronic) complexity, diesel engine glow plug issues.

Maintenance Importance:

Regular maintenance is critical to prevent premature wear and ensure the longevity of these classic vehicles.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for building durable, luxurious, and technologically advanced vehicles.

Introduction:

The W116 was the first model to officially bear the 'S-Class' designation, marking a new era for Mercedes-Benz's flagship sedan.

Development Focus:

Emphasis on aerodynamics, safety, comfort, and ride quality. Introduced advanced features like ABS and independent rear suspension.

Manufacturing Location:

Sindelfingen, West Germany

Total Units:

Approx. 473,000 units produced across all W116 variants.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Design Awards:

While specific awards may not be widely publicized, the W116 was recognized for its groundbreaking design and safety innovations, influencing automotive design for decades.

Classic Car Status:

Widely regarded as a modern classic, praised for its build quality, timeless styling, and driving experience.