Historical Segment:
Executive Sedan / Luxury Mid-size Car
Key Competitors:
BMW 5 Series (E12/E28), Audi 100, Volvo 240/260 Series, Jaguar XJ
Vehicle Characteristics:
Renowned for its robust build quality, legendary durability, comfortable ride, and sophisticated engineering
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive technical data, instructions, and methodology for repair interventions, enabling both professional mechanics and DIY enthusiasts to maintain and repair the W123 280SE effectively.
Coverage Years:
1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, emission control systems
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission, manual transmission (if applicable for the 280SE variant), clutch, driveshaft, differential, axles
Brakes Suspension Steering:
Brake system (front and rear), hydraulic system, power steering, suspension components (front and rear), steering linkage
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrumentation, power windows, central locking, wiring diagrams
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, bumpers, chassis components, structural repair
Climate Control:
Service and repair of the heating and air conditioning (if equipped) system, including component removal and replacement.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication, tune-up procedures
Repair Procedures:
Removal, installation, disassembly, assembly, adjustment, and repair of all major components and systems
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Diagnostic charts, symptom analysis, common problems, testing procedures for various systems
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, component replacement, and reassembly.
Fuel System Diagnosis:
Specific guidance on diagnosing and repairing K-Jetronic fuel injection system faults, including fuel pressure testing.
Technical Detail Level:
Comprehensive step-by-step procedures, detailed explanations, pictorial diagrams, exploded views, torque specifications, wear limits, service data
Wiring Diagrams:
Includes comprehensive electrical system wiring diagrams for easier troubleshooting of electrical issues.
Special Tool References:
References specific Mercedes-Benz service tool numbers and illustrates their usage, crucial for accurate repairs.
File Type:
Portable Document Format (PDF)
Printability:
Printable on demand, all pages can be printed
Binding Type:
Digital (Instant Download)
Digital Paper Emulation:
Simulates a high-quality printed manual with clear text and diagrams
Reader Requirement:
Adobe Reader or compatible PDF viewer
Operating Systems:
Windows, macOS, Linux OS
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC
Engine Code:
M110 (likely for 280SE)
Displacement:
2.8 Liters (2789 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
86.0 mm x 80.25 mm
Compression Ratio:
Approximately 8.0:1 or 8.7:1 (depending on specific market/version)
Horsepower Output:
Approximately 155-185 hp (DIN) at 5500 rpm (varies by market and injection system)
Torque Output:
Approximately 230-245 Nm (DIN) at 4000 rpm (varies by market and injection system)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS) fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 RON recommended)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 liters (with filter)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (check manual for climate-specific recommendations)
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed Automatic (e.g., 722.1)
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed or 5-speed Manual (less common for 280SE, but existed)
Torque Converter Lockup:
Present on automatic transmissions for improved efficiency
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mercedes-Benz Specification 236.6 or 236.7 (e.g., ATF Dexron II)
Length:
Approx. 4725 mm (186.0 in)
Width:
Approx. 1785 mm (70.3 in)
Height:
Approx. 1420 mm (55.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2795 mm (110.0 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1500-1600 kg (3300-3530 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 2000-2100 kg
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x112 mm
Standard Tire Size:
175 R14 or 185/70 R14
Crash Safety Era:
Designed to contemporary safety standards of the era, emphasizing structural integrity and driver protection. Lacked modern electronic safety aids.
Active Safety Systems:
Four-wheel disc brakes (standard on 280SE), collapsible steering column
Passive Safety Features:
Reinforced passenger cell, impact-absorbing bumpers, laminated front windshield
Oil And Filter Change:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months (refer to manual for exact intervals)
Major Service Intervals:
Major service items like spark plugs, fuel filter, air filter, and coolant service at specified intervals (e.g., 30,000-50,000 miles)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., Mercedes-Benz Specification 325.0)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Wear Items:
Suspension bushings, ball joints, climate control blower motor resistors, vacuum actuators for climate control, fuel distributor seals, flex discs in driveshaft.
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel arches, rocker panels, jacking points, sunroof frames, door bottoms.
Valve Lash Adjustment:
Requires periodic adjustment (typically every 20,000-30,000 miles) for optimal performance and longevity.
Mercedes Benz Philosophy:
Reputation for engineering excellence, durability, and understated luxury.
W123 Introduction:
Launched in 1976, the W123 series succeeded the W114/W115 range and introduced more modern styling and engineering.
W123 Development:
Characterized by its over-engineered construction, leading to its reputation as one of the most durable Mercedes-Benz models ever built.
W123 End Of Production:
Production of the W123 series ended in 1986, succeeded by the W124 E-Class.
Production Period:
1976-1985
