Vehicle Segment:
Off-road Vehicle / Luxury SUV
Original Intent:
Developed for military and off-road use, later evolved into a luxury icon.
Competitors Era:
Land Rover Defender, Toyota Land Cruiser, Jeep CJ/Wrangler (though positioned higher in luxury).
Off Road Capability:
Robust ladder frame chassis, solid front and rear axles, selectable four-wheel drive, differential locks.
Durability:
Built with extremely durable components, designed for extreme conditions and longevity.
Iconic Design:
Timeless, utilitarian, and instantly recognizable squared-off design.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnosis, repair, tuning, component specifics for M102 gasoline engines.
Fuel System:
Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection system, fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulators, troubleshooting.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant types, flush and fill procedures, fan clutch diagnosis.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter (if applicable for market), muffler, pipe routing, leak detection.
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission overhaul, shifting mechanisms, clutch operation, fluid specifications, torque converter service.
Drivetrain:
Transfer case, locking differentials (if equipped), front and rear axle assemblies, driveshafts, U-joints, bearing service.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, springs, shock absorbers, bushings, steering linkage, alignment procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system, pump, gearbox, tie rods, steering column, universal joints, troubleshooting.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc/drum brakes, brake calipers, master cylinder, brake booster, hydraulic lines, parking brake system, ABS (if equipped).
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, ignition system, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, diagnostic codes.
Body And Chassis:
Frame construction, body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass, seals, rust prevention, underbody protection.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components, refrigerant, diagnosis, repair.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug service, belt inspection and replacement, greasing points.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, common fault finding, symptom-based problem solving, electrical system diagnostics.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems.
Overhaul:
Complete engine rebuild, transmission rebuild, differential overhaul, suspension component replacement.
Diagnostics:
Fault code interpretation, live data analysis (for era appropriate systems), component testing procedures.
Adjustment:
Valve adjustments, ignition timing, carburetor/throttle body adjustments, clutch adjustment, brake adjustments.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
Depth Level:
Professional Technician Level - Assumes prior mechanical knowledge and tool familiarity.
Diagnostic Tools:
Guidance on using basic automotive tools, multimeters, and potentially early diagnostic equipment.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all fasteners, crucial for engine and chassis work.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of Mercedes-Benz specific or equivalent special tools for certain procedures.
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Manual Transmission (Getrag)
Transmission Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (Mercedes-Benz 722.3)
Drivetrain Configuration:
Part-time 4WD with optional front axle lock and rear axle lock
Gear Ratios Manual Approx:
1st: 4.02, 2nd: 2.57, 3rd: 1.58, 4th: 1.00, Reverse: 3.74
Transfer Case Gear Ratios:
High Range: 1.00, Low Range: 2.00 (approx.)
Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4 (Manual), Dexron III (Automatic) - Verify specific manual requirements.
Oil Change Interval Engine:
Every 10,000 - 15,000 km or 12 months (check manual for exact specification and severe duty).
Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000 - 30,000 km or as needed based on operating conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 40,000 km (check specific plug type and manual).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 40,000-60,000 km.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG/SH, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific ambient temperature recommendations).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 Liters (with filter change)
Coolant Specification:
MB Approved Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrate (e.g., G48, Z) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4
Common Wear Items:
U-joints, bushings (suspension and steering), brake lines, fuel pump, vacuum leaks (K-Jetronic), rust (especially in common areas like fender flares, rear corners, tailgate).
Electrical Gremlins:
Corrosion in connectors, aging wiring insulation can lead to intermittent faults.
K Jetronic Issues:
Can be sensitive to vacuum leaks, faulty fuel distributor, or incorrect mixture settings, leading to rough running or poor performance.