🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

220 Series (220, 220a, 220S, 220SE)

Chassis Codes:

W180 (220, 220a), W105 (220S), W128 (220SE)

Generation:

Ponton Era (Second Generation)

Engine Codes:

M180 (2.2L Inline-6, Solex carburetors), M180 (2.2L Inline-6, Bosch fuel injection for SE models)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Aimed at owners and independent workshops seeking to perform comprehensive maintenance and repairs on the classic Mercedes-Benz 220 series, offering significant cost savings over dealership services.

Competitors:

Official Mercedes-Benz workshop manuals (often expensive and harder to find), third-party repair guides (may lack Mercedes-Benz specific detail).

Ease Of Use:

Features easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions and pictures for simplified repairs.

Accessibility:

Instant download and email delivery, accessible on multiple devices (PC, Mac, tablet, smartphone).

Versatility:

Covers all models, engines, trim, and transmission types within the 220 series for the relevant production years.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital File (PDF)

Page Count:

Extensive (Specific count not provided, but described as 'Complete' and 'A-Z')

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, inspection, overhaul, timing, lubrication, cooling system, engine mounts

Fuel System:

Carburetor (Solex) service and adjustment, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank, fuel injection (Bosch for SE models) system diagnostics and repair

Ignition System:

Ignition timing, spark plugs, distributor, coil, ignition wires, maintenance

Transmission:

Manual gearbox service, disassembly, assembly, clutch service, automatic transmission (optional, depending on model variant) service

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, universal joints, rear axle, differential, wheel bearings

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications

Steering:

Steering column, steering box, tie rods, steering linkage, power steering system (if equipped)

Brakes:

Drum brake service (front and rear), brake adjustments, wheel cylinders, master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, charging system (generator/alternator), starter motor, battery, lighting system, instrumentation, horn, wipers

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, body sealing, anti-corrosion measures

Heating And Ventilation:

Heater core, blower motor, ducting, controls

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance, fluid changes, lubrication, filter replacement, ignition system tuning, brake adjustments, pre-delivery inspection

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures, identifying common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides

Repair:

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

Overhaul:

Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures

Adjustment:

Precise adjustments for carburetors, ignition timing, brakes, and valves

Installation:

Instructions for installing new or reconditioned parts

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and detailed diagnostics. Includes specifications, tolerances, and procedures suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text (standard for quality PDF manuals)

Print Quality:

High Quality (stated in description)

Image Quality:

Clear, step-by-step illustrations and photographs

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Downloadable)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Downloadable)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline-6 Cylinder

Displacement:

2195 cc (2.2 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

82 mm x 85 mm

Horsepower 220 220A:

80 hp (59 kW) @ 4800 rpm (approx.)

Horsepower 220S:

105 hp (77 kW) @ 5000 rpm (approx.)

Horsepower 220Se:

115 hp (85 kW) @ 5000 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

Varies by model, but generally around 160-180 Nm

Carburetors:

Twin Solex 32 PAIJ downdraft carburetors (220, 220a, 220S)

Fuel Injection:

Bosch mechanical fuel injection (220SE)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline

Ignition Type:

Distributor-based ignition system with breaker points

🔧 Transmission

Type Manual:

4-speed Manual Transmission (floor shift)

Type Automatic:

Optional 4-speed Automatic Transmission (Hydrak or similar, depending on specific model and year)

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, hydraulically operated clutch

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 90 gear oil (typical, consult specific manual for exact spec)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III or equivalent (typical for Hydrak, consult specific manual)

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

4-door Sedan, 2-door Coupe, 2-door Convertible (Cabriolet)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1300-1450 kg (depending on model and equipment)

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Not specified, but would accommodate 4-5 passengers and luggage.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Era:

Pre-dates modern crash testing standards. Focus on passive safety features of the era.

Brakes:

Hydraulic drum brakes on all four wheels.

Steering Stability:

Independent front suspension and robust chassis contributed to stable handling.

Body Structure:

Reinforced passenger cell, safety glass throughout.

Interior:

Padded dashboard and steering wheel (early versions), safety locks on doors.

💡 Technology Features

Radio:

Optional factory fitted or dealer installed AM/FM radio. Often analog tuning with manual station selection.

Speakers:

Typically one or two front speakers.

None:

No electronic driver assistance systems typical of modern vehicles. Safety and operation rely on driver skill and mechanical integrity.

None:

No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth, USB, or Wi-Fi.

Headlights:

Single or dual round sealed-beam headlights.

Dashboard:

Classic analog gauges including speedometer, tachometer (optional on some models), fuel level, oil pressure, coolant temperature, and ammeter.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months (depending on driving conditions and oil used).

Tune Up:

Spark plug replacement, points adjustment, carburetor synchronization every 10,000-15,000 miles.

Valve Adjustment:

Every 15,000-20,000 miles (mechanical adjustment required)

Engine Oil:

API SG or higher, SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 (depending on climate, consult manual for exact spec). Zinc additive (ZDDP) is highly recommended for flat-tappet camshafts.

Coolant:

50/50 mix of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water. MB specification 325.0 coolant is ideal.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 glycol-based brake fluid.

Grease Points:

Periodic lubrication of chassis grease points (e.g., suspension, steering linkage) with a good quality multi-purpose lithium grease.

Carburetor Tuning:

Solex carburetors can be finicky and require regular adjustment and rebuilding for optimal performance. Fuel delivery issues are common if not maintained.

Ignition Points:

Points require periodic inspection, cleaning, and adjustment to maintain proper timing and spark.

Rust:

Like many cars of this era, rust is a common concern, particularly in the lower body panels, wheel wells, and chassis components.

Suspension Bushings:

Rubber bushings in the suspension and steering can degrade over time, leading to looseness and poor handling.

Fuel Hoses:

Aging rubber fuel hoses can become brittle and prone to leaks, posing a fire hazard.

Cooling System:

Radiator core support fatigue, water pump leaks, and thermostat issues can lead to overheating.

📚 Vehicle History

Legacy:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and durability, established long before the 220 series.

Pontons:

The 220 series was part of the groundbreaking 'Ponton' design era, characterized by its modern, fully integrated body (unibody construction) with no protruding fenders. This represented a significant departure from pre-war automotive styling.

Progressive Development:

The 220a (simplified version) was followed by the more upscale 220S, and finally the technologically advanced 220SE with fuel injection. The W128 chassis (220SE) refined the Ponton design.

Production Years:

1951-1959 (across various 220 models)

Manufacturing Location:

Stuttgart, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Market Perception:

The 220 series, particularly the 'S' and 'SE' models, were recognized for their robust engineering, comfortable ride, and elegant styling, cementing Mercedes-Benz's reputation for quality in the post-war era.

Classic Status:

Highly regarded by automotive historians and collectors as iconic examples of mid-century German automotive design and engineering.