Target Audience:
Owners of Mercedes-Benz 280CE (W123 Coupe) from 1977-1985, DIY mechanics, classic car restorers.
Value Proposition:
Provides essential factory-level information for maintaining and repairing the vehicle, mirroring dealership technician resources.
Alternatives:
Aftermarket repair manuals (Haynes, Chilton) often lack the depth and specificity of factory documentation.
Key Selling Points:
Comprehensive coverage, factory accuracy, detailed diagrams, troubleshooting guidance, DIY friendly.
Download Benefit:
Instant access via free download, no shipping costs.
Primary Coverage:
Full factory service and repair
Engine Systems Coverage:
Fuel, ignition, lubrication, cooling, emissions, engine mechanicals (including rebuilds)
Transmission Systems Coverage:
Manual and automatic transmission repair, service, and overhaul
Chassis Systems Coverage:
Suspension, steering, brakes (including ABS if applicable for later years), driveline
Electrical Systems Coverage:
Wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, lighting, instruments, body electronics
Body And Interior Coverage:
Body panels, exterior trim, seats, interior trim, HVAC, windows, doors
Estimated Page Count:
Likely over 1000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory manuals)
Type:
Factory Service Workshop Manual
Language:
English (standard for factory manuals of this era)
File Format:
HTML/Flash menu with PDF
Compatibility:
Windows (95/98/ME/XP/Vista/Win7), Linux, MAC
All Systems:
Comprehensive coverage of all mechanical, electrical, and body systems.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, lubrication, fluid changes, filter replacements.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including engine rebuilds and transmission overhauls.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom analysis, and diagnostic flowcharts.
Adjustment Procedures:
Carburetor tuning, ignition timing, valve adjustments, brake adjustments.
Depth:
Factory-level technical depth, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Diagnostics:
Advanced diagnostic procedures and component testing methods.
Special Tools:
Identification of special tools required for specific repairs.
Interactivity:
HTML/Flash menu for navigation, PDF for content.
Searchability:
PDF content is typically searchable, allowing quick access to specific information.
Quality:
High-resolution digital reproduction of original factory documentation.
Binding:
Not applicable (digital format)
Paper:
Not applicable (digital format)
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
2.8 Liters (2746 cc)
Horsepower:
Approximately 140-155 hp (depending on specific year and market variations, e.g., with or without catalytic converter).
Torque:
Approximately 170-180 lb-ft (depending on specific year and market variations).
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS - Continuous Injection System) mechanical fuel injection.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Premium recommended)
Ignition Type:
Electronic ignition (breakerless, often with vacuum advance and electronic control unit).
Cooling Method:
Water-cooled
Standard Transmission:
4-speed manual transmission (often optional).
Optional Transmission:
4-speed automatic transmission (common option).
Automatic Features:
Torque converter, hydraulic control, typically with a torque converter lock-up feature in later models.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
MB 236.1, MB 236.3 (e.g., Dexron II or equivalent specified in the manual).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 gear oil (viscosity typically SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90, refer to manual for exact spec).
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2790 mm (109.8 inches)
Length:
Approx. 4725 mm (186 inches)
Width:
Approx. 1750 mm (68.9 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1390 mm (54.7 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1450-1550 kg (depending on options and transmission)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle's compliance plate (typically around 1900-2000 kg)
Crash Test Data:
Data for this era is limited by modern standards, but the W123 chassis was known for robust construction.
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes front, disc or drum rear (front discs vented). Power assisted.
Anti Lock Braking System:
Optional on later models (typically 1980s onwards).
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts, lap belts rear (often with shoulder belt conversion available).
Crumple Zones:
Engineered crumple zones front and rear.
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player (optional upgrades available).
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control system (optional). Features effective heating and A/C.
Cruise Control:
Optional cruise control system.
Power Windows:
Standard or optional power windows.
Connectivity Features:
None in the modern sense; basic electrical systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km or 6-12 months (refer to manual for exact specification based on oil type and driving conditions).
Major Service Interval:
Significant inspections and component checks usually around 40,000-80,000 km intervals.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SF or SG, SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 recommended (viscosity depends on climate). MB 229.1 or equivalent.
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. MB 325.0.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Vacuum lines (aging and cracking), fuel distributor o-rings, fuel pump, ball joints, tie rod ends, window regulators, door seals.
Potential Rust Areas:
Wheel arches, rocker panels, jacking points, around windows.
K Jetronic Quirks:
Sensitivity to fuel quality, diaphragm wear in fuel distributor, worn control pressure regulator, clogged air flow meter.
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long history of producing high-quality, durable, and technologically advanced luxury vehicles.
W123 Coupe Introduction:
The W123 Coupe was introduced in 1977 as a more luxurious and stylish variant of the successful W123 sedan and estate.
280Ce Significance:
The 280CE was a flagship model within the W123 Coupe range, known for its smooth inline-6 engine and refined driving experience.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in West Germany.
Production Run W123 Coupe:
1977-1985
Industry Recognition:
The W123 platform is widely recognized as a benchmark for build quality, durability, and comfort in its era.
Long Term Reliability:
Consistently ranked highly for long-term reliability and owner satisfaction among classic Mercedes-Benz models.
Certification Standards:
Manufactured to rigorous Mercedes-Benz engineering and quality standards.
