Models Covered:
W107, W123, W124, W126, W129, W140, W201
Chassis Codes Covered:
R107, C107, W123, S123, C123, CE123, W124, S124, C124, A124, R129, C140, SEC140, W201
Target Audience:
Owners and independent workshops specializing in classic Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
Value Proposition:
Provides crucial technical data and repair procedures for a wide range of iconic Mercedes-Benz models from the late 20th century, essential for maintaining their value and performance.
Model Diversity:
Uniquely covers a broad spectrum of Mercedes-Benz chassis from a significant era, offering a consolidated resource.
Technical Accuracy:
Represents factory-level information, ensuring accuracy in maintenance and repair procedures.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel injection (KE-Jetronic, CIS-E, etc.), ignition, lubrication, cooling, exhaust, emission control
Drivetrain Systems:
Manual and automatic transmissions, drive axles, differentials, driveshafts, clutch
Chassis Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension (MacPherson strut, multi-link), steering systems (power steering), wheel bearings
Braking Systems:
Hydraulic brake systems, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake components (discs, pads, lines, calipers)
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, wipers, horn, power accessories, fuses, relays, basic wiring diagrams
HVAC Systems:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components and basic troubleshooting
Body And Trim:
Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, convertible tops (for applicable models)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspections/replacement, brake pad inspection
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common drivability, electrical, and mechanical issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Major Repairs:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, fuel system servicing
Adjustments:
Valve adjustments (where applicable), idle speed adjustments, timing adjustments
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering both basic maintenance and in-depth repairs. Includes detailed step-by-step instructions, diagrams, and specifications for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Types Covered:
Inline-4, Inline-6, V8 petrol engines; Diesel engines (OM615, OM616, OM617, OM601, OM602, OM603)
Sample Performance W124 300E:
2.6L M103 I6, approx. 160 hp, 160 lb-ft torque
Sample Performance W126 560Sel:
5.6L M117 V8, approx. 238 hp, 317 lb-ft torque
Fuel Injection Systems:
Mechanical Fuel Injection (K-Jetronic, KE-Jetronic), Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Engine Oil Recommendation General:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity grades (e.g., 10W-40, 15W-40 for older diesels, 5W-40 synthetic for later models) and API specifications.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. MB-approved coolant required.
Transmission Types:
4-speed and 5-speed manual transmissions; 4-speed and 5-speed automatic transmissions (e.g., 722.3, 722.4, 722.5, 722.6)
Optional Transmissions:
Availability of 5-speed manuals on certain models, LSD (Limited Slip Differential) as an option.
Automatic Transmission Features:
Lock-up torque converter, sport/economy modes (on some models), electronic control (later models).
Automatic Transmission Fluid General:
MB 236.1, 236.3, 236.6, 236.7, 236.10 (refer to specific model for exact type).
Manual Transmission Fluid General:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, specific viscosity grade (e.g., 75W-90).
Sample Dimensions W124 Sedan:
Length: ~4740-4880 mm, Width: ~1740-1790 mm, Height: ~1430-1460 mm
Sample Dimensions W126 Coupe:
Length: ~4900-5000 mm, Width: ~1790-1800 mm, Height: ~1400-1410 mm
Sample Curb Weight W201:
Approx. 1200-1350 kg depending on engine and equipment
Sample Curb Weight W107 Sl:
Approx. 1600-1750 kg depending on engine and equipment
General Safety Approach:
Mercedes-Benz's focus on structural integrity and passive safety features for its era.
Active Safety Features:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) on many models, responsive steering, powerful brakes.
Passive Safety Features:
Crumple zones, reinforced passenger cell, safety steering column, padded interior surfaces, seat belts (often with pretensioners on later models).
Infotainment Systems:
Period-appropriate analog and early digital radio systems, cassette players. Optional CD changers on later models.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, ABS, power steering, limited-slip differentials (optional).
Connectivity Features:
None in the modern sense; primarily focused on vehicle mechanics and basic comfort/convenience features.
Oil Change Interval General:
Typically 7,500 to 15,000 miles (12,000 to 24,000 km) or 12 months, depending on model, engine, and oil type used. Early models often had shorter intervals.
Major Service Interval General:
30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km) for tasks like transmission fluid, differential fluid changes, spark plug replacement, fuel filter replacement.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable for most engines in this range (Inline-6 and V8 models typically use timing chains). Some inline-4 diesels might have timing belts.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Power Steering Fluid Type:
MB 236.3 specification fluid or equivalent ATF.
Common W123 Issues:
Rust (wheel wells, rocker panels), vacuum leaks, injector line issues (diesel), wear on suspension bushings.
Common W124 Issues:
Headlight wiper motor failure, wiring harness degradation (especially on early KE-Jetronic models), valve cover gasket leaks, heater control valve failure.
Common W126 Issues:
Sagging headliner, door seal degradation, vacuum door lock issues, climate control panel failure, wiring harness issues.
Common W201 Issues:
Rust, SRS warning light (due to seat occupancy sensor or wiring), rear axle subframe mounts, fuel pump relay failures.
Common W107 R129 Issues:
Convertible top hydraulic leaks (R107/R129), sagging rear springs, dashboard cracks (W107), window regulator issues.
Common W140 Issues:
Complex electronics failures, biodegradable wiring harnesses (later models), window regulator issues, door lock actuator failures.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Renowned for engineering excellence, durability, and pioneering safety innovations.
W107 Era:
SL and SLC roadsters/coupes, representing sporty luxury. Replaced the W113 'Pagoda'.
W123 Era:
Iconic executive sedan, coupe, wagon (T-model), and limousine. Known for bulletproof reliability.
W124 Era:
The 'E-Class' forerunners. Highly engineered, durable, and comfortable. Introduced many innovations.
W126 Era:
Flagship S-Class sedan and coupe. Embodied luxury, technology, and safety of its time.
W129 Era:
R129 SL roadster. High-tech successor to the W107, with advanced safety and performance features.
W140 Era:
The S-Class of the 1990s. Massive, technologically advanced, and opulent. Introduced CAN bus.
W201 Era:
The '190E' or 'Baby Benz'. Introduced Mercedes-Benz to a broader market with compact executive luxury and sportiness.
Production Period Covered:
1981-1993 (as indicated by the manual title, covering the core years of these chassis' lifecycles).
General Mercedes Benz Reputation:
Consistently recognized for build quality, engineering, and longevity. Many models from this era are highly sought after by collectors.
Subjective Owner Ratings General:
High ratings for comfort, build quality, and engine performance; moderate ratings for initial maintenance costs due to complexity and parts availability for specific items.
