Engine Service:
Complete diagnostic, maintenance, and repair procedures for the 2.8L inline-six engine.
Fuel System:
Detailed coverage of fuel injection (Bosch K-Jetronic), fuel pump, lines, and filters.
Ignition System:
Ignition timing, spark plugs, distributor, coil, and associated electronics.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, and fan operation.
Lubrication System:
Oil pump, oil filter, oil pressure, and lubrication points.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, pipes, catalytic converter (if applicable for late models), and mufflers.
Transmission Manual:
Service and repair for the manual gearbox (if applicable for the 280SE variant).
Transmission Automatic:
Detailed coverage of the automatic transmission (e.g., 4-speed automatic), including fluid changes, adjustments, and overhaul.
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, universal joints, rear axle, differential, and half-shafts.
Suspension Front:
MacPherson struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings, and steering linkage.
Suspension Rear:
Semi-trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs, and bushings.
Brakes Front:
Disc brake system, calipers, pads, rotors, and hydraulic lines.
Brakes Rear:
Disc brake system, calipers, pads, rotors, and hydraulic lines.
Parking Brake:
Mechanism, cables, and adjustments.
Steering System:
Power steering pump, steering box, tie rods, and adjustments.
Electrical System Overview:
12-volt electrical system, battery, alternator, starter motor, and wiring diagrams.
Lighting System:
Headlights, taillights, interior lights, and associated switches.
Instrumentation:
Dashboard gauges, warning lights, and sensor troubleshooting.
Climate Control:
Heater core, blower motor, air conditioning system (if equipped), and controls.
Body Panels:
Front fenders, hood, doors, trunk lid, bumpers, and trim.
Glass And Seals:
Windshield, side glass, rear glass, and weatherstripping replacement.
Interior Trim:
Seats, door panels, headliner, and dashboard components.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, lubrication, and tune-ups.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults.
Engine Repair:
Valve adjustments, gasket replacement, piston ring installation, cylinder head removal/installation.
Transmission Overhaul:
Complete rebuild procedures for automatic transmissions.
Brake System Repair:
Brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper service, brake line bleeding, and master cylinder replacement.
Suspension Component Replacement:
Ball joint, tie rod, shock absorber, and bushing replacement.
Electrical Component Diagnosis:
Testing and replacement of starter, alternator, ignition components, and switches.
Bodywork Repair:
Panel alignment, dent repair, and rust prevention guidance.
Wiring Diagram Interpretation:
Detailed schematics for troubleshooting electrical issues.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to complete component overhauls.
Visual Aids:
Hundreds of detailed photos and exploded diagrams for clarity.
Diagnostic Capability:
Enables professional-level troubleshooting and fault diagnosis.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (consult specific manual recommendations).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles for automatic transmissions (check for sealed units and service recommendations).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SF/SG or equivalent, SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 depending on climate (refer to manual for exact spec).
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.1 or Dexron II (for automatic transmission, consult manual for exact spec).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based, Mercedes-Benz Specification 325.0 or 325.5.
Engine Common Problems:
Timing chain stretch (M110), oil leaks from valve cover and oil pan gaskets, potential head gasket issues if overheated.
Fuel System Common Problems:
Aging fuel lines and seals leading to leaks, clogged injectors or fuel distributor in K-Jetronic system, failing warm-up regulator.
Suspension Common Problems:
Worn bushings (control arms, subframe), leaking front struts, worn ball joints and tie rod ends.
Electrical Common Problems:
Corroded connections, failing voltage regulator, brittle wiring insulation, intermittent issues with switches and relays.
Climate Control Common Problems:
Leaking heater core, failing blower motor resistor, AC system leaks and compressor issues.
