Segment:
Luxury Executive Sedan
Positioning:
The W126 platform represented Mercedes-Benz's pinnacle of automotive engineering and luxury for its era, competing with high-end sedans from Jaguar, BMW, and Cadillac.
Competitors:
BMW 7 Series (E23), Jaguar XJ (XJ40), Cadillac Fleetwood, Lincoln Continental.
Manual Value Proposition:
This manual is essential for owners and technicians seeking authentic, dealership-level repair and maintenance information for the 1980 W126 SE, ensuring accuracy and completeness beyond generic guides.
Vehicle Appeal:
The W126 SE is renowned for its build quality, comfort, sophisticated engineering, and enduring design, making it a highly desirable classic automobile.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Lubrication, Cooling, Ignition, Starting, Charging, Emission Control, Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission (if applicable to SE variant), Driveshafts, Differentials, Axles
Chassis:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes (including parking brake), Wheels and Tires
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Glass, Mirrors, Interior Trim, Seats, Instrument Panel, HVAC (Air Conditioning), Wiper and Washer Systems, Door Locks, Safety Systems (Seat Belts, Supplemental Restraint System - if applicable for early models), Cruise Control
Electrical And Electronics:
Wiring Schematics, Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio/Visual Systems, Horn, Engine Control System, Multiplex/CAN Communication (early forms/precursors), Immobilizer (if applicable)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, tune-ups
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault finding for all systems, diagnostic procedures
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, component removal and installation, adjustments
Specifications:
Detailed technical specifications for all components, torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical data
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including in-depth electrical diagnostics and body repair.
Searchability:
Likely searchable text within PDF
Printable:
Yes, all pages printable
Scalability:
Images and diagrams can be enlarged and printed
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Operating Systems:
Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac Compatible
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip (free)
Engine Code:
M110 (2.8L inline-6) or M116 (3.8L V8) or M117 (4.5L or 5.0L V8) - Specific to the 1980 SE model, typically the M116 3.8L V8 or M117 4.5L V8 were common for the 'SE' designation in many markets. This manual would cover all possible engine variants for the 1980 SE.
Displacement:
Varies by engine, e.g., 3.8L (3799 cc) for M116, 4.5L (4511 cc) for M117.
Horsepower Est:
Approx. 155-180 hp for 3.8L, 200-230 hp for 4.5L (market dependent).
Torque Est:
Approx. 205-225 lb-ft for 3.8L, 255-285 lb-ft for 4.5L (market dependent).
Injection System:
Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS - Continuous Injection System) or Bosch CIS-E (with Lambda control).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Transmission Type:
Typically 4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., 4G-Tronic).
Transmission Type:
A 5-speed manual transmission was available on some W126 models, though less common for the SE designation, particularly in North America. The manual would detail this if applicable.
Features:
Hydraulic torque converter, electronic control for shift points (on later versions of 4G-Tronic).
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon. Specific MB part numbers would be detailed in the manual.
Crash Safety:
While official modern crash ratings are not directly comparable, the W126 was engineered with significant safety advancements for its time, including a reinforced passenger cell and crumple zones.
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - optional on some models/markets for 1980.
Passive Safety:
Driver and passenger airbags (optional/late 1980 introduction in some markets), seat belt pre-tensioners, energy-absorbing steering column.
Audio System:
Original Becker radio/cassette player, often with power antenna. Speaker systems typically integrated into doors and rear deck.
Cruise Control:
Standard on many SE models, electronic cruise control system.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on vehicle systems and basic driver information. Early forms of multiplex communication might be touched upon in advanced electrical sections.
HVAC System:
Automatic climate control (Thermatic or optional Thermotronic) with vacuum-actuated blend doors and flap controls.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months (details specific to engine oil and driving conditions are in the manual).
Major Service Interval:
Major services often around 30,000 miles or 24 months, involving checks of all major systems, spark plugs, belts, etc.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SF or SG rated oil, viscosity typically 15W-40 or 20W-50 depending on climate. Specific MB approval numbers would be listed.
Coolant Spec:
Mercedes-Benz approved coolant/antifreeze (e.g., G05 or similar ethylene glycol based) mixed with distilled water in a 50/50 ratio.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Vacuum system leaks (affecting HVAC, door locks, central locking), aging rubber hoses and seals, distributor cap and rotor wear, fuel pressure regulator issues (K-Jetronic), potential for rust in specific areas, early SRS system complexities.
Electrical Issues:
Wiring harness degradation (especially insulation), intermittent electrical faults, issues with vacuum operated central locking and climate control actuators.
Brand History:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and safety, dating back to the inception of the automobile.
W126 Introduction:
The W126 S-Class was introduced in 1979 as the successor to the highly successful W116 series, setting new benchmarks for automotive design, aerodynamics, and safety.
W126 Generation:
This represents the first generation of the W126, produced from 1979 to 1991. The 1980 model year is part of the early production run.
Production Period:
1979-1991
Manufacturing Location:
Mainly Sindelfingen, West Germany.
