Body Styles Covered By Manual:
Sedan, Coupe, Wagon (T-Model), Limousine
Engine Codes Likely Covered:
M115, M116, M117 (Petrol), OM615, OM616, OM617 (Diesel)
Target Audience:
Professional mechanics, DIY enthusiasts, and owners of Mercedes-Benz W123 vehicles
Manual Value Proposition:
Comprehensive, detailed, and instantly accessible digital resource for all service and repair needs of the W123 generation
Instant Download:
Immediate access without shipping delays or costs
Completeness Guarantee:
100% complete and intact, no missing or corrupt pages/sections
Covered Years:
1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985
Manual Classification:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Language Of Manual:
English
Engine Systems:
Engine overhaul, cooling system, fuel system (carburetor and injection), ignition system, exhaust system, lubrication system
Drivetrain Systems:
Manual and automatic transmission service, clutch operation, driveshafts, differential, axles
Chassis Systems:
Front and rear suspension, steering system, braking system (including ABS where applicable), wheels and tires
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, instrumentation, starter, alternator, battery, fuse/relay box, power windows, central locking
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, seats, doors, windows, HVAC system, fuel tank, body sealant specifications
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, belt adjustments, spark plug replacement, brake pad replacement
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuilds, electrical component diagnostics and repair, bodywork repairs
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic charts, common fault identification, symptom-based troubleshooting for engine, electrical, and mechanical issues
Adjustment Procedures:
Valve adjustments, carburetor tuning, fuel injection timing, ignition timing, brake adjustments, clutch adjustments
Installation And Removal:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for removing and installing major and minor components
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Comprehensive diagnostic procedures, including testing specifications for various sensors, actuators, and control modules
Specifications And Data:
Factory specifications, torque values, wear limits, fluid capacities, and component tolerances
Pictorial Illustrations:
Detailed step-by-step explanations with pictorial diagrams, exploded views, and photographs
Special Tool References:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized Mercedes-Benz tools required for specific repair procedures
Rebuild Procedures:
Comprehensive instructions for rebuilding key components such as engines, transmissions, and brake systems
Engine Families Covered:
Inline-4, Inline-5, and V8 petrol engines; Inline-4 and Inline-5 diesel engines
Engine Performance Data:
Horsepower, torque, and specific performance figures for various engine variants are detailed within the manual
Fuel System Details:
Covers Zenith carburetors, Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS) fuel injection, and diesel fuel injection systems
Standard Transmission Types:
4-speed and 5-speed manual transmissions
Optional Transmission Types:
3-speed and 4-speed automatic transmissions (e.g., 722.1, 722.3)
Transmission Service:
Detailed procedures for diagnosis, repair, and overhaul of both manual and automatic transmissions
Exterior Dimensions Reference:
Specifications for Sedan, Coupe, and Wagon variants are referenced for repair and alignment procedures
Interior Specifications Reference:
Information pertaining to interior component removal, installation, and adjustments
Cargo Capacity Reference:
Relevant for wagon (T-Model) body style, influencing panel and component access
Weight Specifications Reference:
Curb weights and axle load limits relevant for lifting and repair procedures
Safety Rating Reference:
While specific NHTSA ratings are not in the manual, safety procedures and warnings are paramount for component integrity
Active Safety Systems:
Braking system (including early ABS on some models), steering, and suspension system maintenance and repair are covered to ensure active safety
Passive Safety Features:
Seat belt system, body structure integrity, and airbag systems (if equipped on later models) are considered in repair procedures
General Maintenance Schedule:
The manual provides guidance for periodic maintenance, typically involving oil changes, filter replacements, and inspections at intervals specified by mileage or time.
Engine Oil Recommendations:
Specifies API classifications and viscosity grades (e.g., SAE 10W-40, SAE 15W-40 depending on climate and engine type) for petrol and diesel engines.
Coolant Specifications:
Details the type of coolant (e.g., ethylene glycol based) and the correct mix ratio with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Specifications:
Lists specific MB approved automatic transmission fluids (ATF) and manual gearbox oil specifications.
Brake Fluid Specifications:
Requires DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid as per Mercedes-Benz specifications.
Common W123 Issues Addressed:
The manual implicitly addresses common wear items and potential issues like vacuum system leaks, injector issues (diesel), carburetor adjustments (petrol), and suspension wear.
Preventative Maintenance:
Emphasis on following the service schedules and using correct parts to prevent premature wear and failure, ensuring reliability.
Model Recognition:
The W123 is renowned for its exceptional durability, often referred to as a 'tank' in automotive circles, and is a collector's item.
Reliability Ratings:
While not a formal award, the W123's long-term reliability and build quality are consistently praised, leading to high owner satisfaction.
Manual Certification:
The manual is presented as a comprehensive factory-level documentation, meeting the rigorous standards expected by Mercedes-Benz for its service literature.
