Target Audience:
Mercedes-Benz W123 280SE owners, classic car enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, restoration specialists
Authenticity:
Actual genuine factory service manual, not a third-party reproduction
Completeness:
Complete official full factory service repair manual, covering all styles
Usability:
Easy to use with printable pages, searchable content, and detailed illustrations
Cost Savings:
Potential savings of $50-$60 per hour on labor costs by performing DIY servicing
Applicable Years:
1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985
Coverage Areas:
General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Suspension, Periodic Lubrication, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection/Fuel System, Emission System, Heater/Air Conditioning, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Interior, Differential/Drive, Axle
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (exact count not specified, but implied to be extensive)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Engine Service:
Complete overhaul, rebuild, component diagnosis and repair
Transmission Service:
Automatic transmission service and repair procedures
Brake System:
Hydraulic system, components, diagnostics, and repair
Electrical System:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension, steering gear, power steering system
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (Bosch K-Jetronic), fuel pump, lines, and tank
Cooling Heating Ac:
Cooling system components, heater core, A/C system service
Body Chassis:
Body panel repair, structural components, interior trim
Maintenance:
Routine service, lubrication, fluid changes, inspections
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues
Repair Rebuild:
Step-by-step repair and overhaul procedures for all major components
Diagnostics:
In-depth diagnostic guides, including electrical system troubleshooting
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, equivalent to factory technician knowledge
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, M110 engine (specific variant for 280SE)
Displacement:
2.8 Liters (2746 cc)
Horsepower:
Approximately 155-185 hp (varies slightly by market and year)
Torque:
Approximately 220-240 Nm (varies slightly by market and year)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS) Fuel Injection
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition (Distributor-based)
Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity grade (typically SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 depending on climate)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (Mercedes-Benz specification recommended)
Type:
4-speed Automatic (often the 4G-Tronic)
Type:
4-speed or 5-speed Manual Transmission (less common in 280SE models but available)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific ATF type (likely Dexron II or equivalent)
Length:
Approximately 4750 mm (187.0 in)
Width:
Approximately 1790 mm (70.5 in)
Height:
Approximately 1420 mm (55.9 in)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1500-1600 kg (3300-3530 lbs)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2790 mm (109.8 in)
Crash Test Results:
While official modern crash test ratings are not directly applicable, the W123 platform was known for its robust construction and safety features for its era.
Brakes:
Four-wheel disc brakes (ventilated front)
Steering:
Power assisted steering
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones
Restraint System:
Seat belts (lap and shoulder belts in the front, lap belts in rear)
Audio System:
Original factory radio (AM/FM, often with cassette player in later years)
Climate Control:
Optional Automatic Climate Control (ACC) available on some models
Cruise Control:
Optional cruise control system
Connectivity Features:
None (era-appropriate technology)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or annually, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specification)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommend service every 30,000-60,000 miles (refer to manual)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 6.5 - 7.0 liters (refer to manual)
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 8.0 - 9.0 liters (refer to manual)
Common Problems:
Rust/corrosion, fuel distributor diaphragm failure, vacuum system leaks, idle control issues, heater blower motor failure, timing chain wear
Preventative Maintenance:
Regular inspection for rust, maintaining vacuum lines, fuel system servicing, and timely fluid changes are crucial.
Manufacturer:
Mercedes-Benz, renowned for engineering excellence and luxury vehicles
W123 Introduction:
Introduced in 1976 as a successor to the W114/W115 series, establishing new benchmarks in durability and refinement.
280Se Positioning:
The 280SE was positioned as a high-performance, luxury model within the W123 lineup.
Production Period:
1976-1985
Manufacturing Location:
Germany (primarily)
