🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

W116 280 S

Year:

1975-1976

Chassis Code:

W116

Engine Code:

M110 (Inline-6)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Essential technical documentation for owners and enthusiasts of the Mercedes-Benz W116 280 S, targeting those who perform their own maintenance and repairs.

Target Audience:

Mercedes-Benz W116 280 S owners, classic car restorers, independent workshops, and automotive technicians specializing in vintage Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

Competitive Analysis:

Distinguished by its authenticity as a genuine factory manual, offering superior accuracy and completeness compared to third-party or Haynes-style manuals. Emphasizes direct knowledge transfer from manufacturer to user.

Key Features:

Official factory content, step-by-step instructions, detailed illustrations/diagrams, advanced troubleshooting guide, printable format, search functionality, cost-saving potential on labor.

Ease Of Use:

Designed for ease of use, allowing users to print specific pages or the entire manual, with numbered instructions, bolded figure numbers, and an easy-to-use table of contents.

Value Proposition:

Empowers owners to perform their own maintenance and repairs, leading to significant savings on labor costs (estimated $50-$60 per hour) and a deeper understanding and connection with their vehicle.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All styles and aspects of repair, maintenance, troubleshooting, and diagnostics for the Mercedes-Benz W116 280 S (1975-1976).

Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (exact count not specified, but described as 'COMPLETE official full factory service repair manual')

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

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.

Engine Control System Coverage:

Detailed information on the Bosch D-Jetronic fuel injection system, including component testing, adjustment procedures, and troubleshooting for fuel delivery and mixture control.

Wiring Diagram Coverage:

Comprehensive, color-coded wiring diagrams for all electrical circuits, including engine management, lighting, instrumentation, comfort systems, and optional accessories, facilitating accurate diagnosis of electrical faults.

Climate Control System:

Service and repair of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, including component diagnostics, refrigerant handling (if applicable), and ducting repairs.

Chassis And Body Repair:

Guidance on chassis components, body panel alignment, door mechanisms, window regulators, and interior trim removal/installation for repairs and restoration.

Emission System Servicing:

Information on emission control components and systems relevant to the 1975-1976 model years, including troubleshooting for any installed catalytic converters or secondary air injection systems.

Procedures Included:

Step-by-step repair procedures, diagnostic troubleshooting, maintenance, rebuilding, refurbishing, restoration, tuning, electrical system diagnosis and repair.

Engine Rebuild Procedures:

Complete engine overhaul instructions, including cylinder head removal and reconditioning, piston and connecting rod installation, crankshaft and bearing service, valve train adjustments, and torque specifications for all critical fasteners.

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Detailed guides for servicing and replacing suspension components such as ball joints, tie rod ends, control arms, shock absorbers, and springs. Includes steering box adjustments and power steering system maintenance.

Fuel System Diagnostics:

Detailed procedures for testing fuel pressure, diagnosing fuel pump issues, injector testing, and troubleshooting fuel delivery problems inherent to the D-Jetronic system.

Brake System Overhaul:

Comprehensive procedures for brake pad and disc replacement, caliper servicing, wheel cylinder inspection, brake line replacement, and bleeding the hydraulic system.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, detailed information equivalent to what factory-trained technicians possess, covering all aspects of repair from fundamentals to advanced diagnostics.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting Guide:

An advanced troubleshooting section designed to help pinpoint problems systematically, often using a symptom-based approach to identify faulty components or systems.

Illustrations And Diagrams:

Numerous detailed illustrations, exploded views, drawings, and photographs that visually guide the user through complex repair procedures and part identification.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical engine, chassis, and suspension fasteners, essential for correct assembly and preventing component failure.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Digital Compatibility:

Compatible with all PC-based Windows operating systems and Mac OS. Can be saved to hard drive or burned to CD-ROM.

Print Quality:

High Resolution, Printable (any page or entire manual)

Searchability:

Fully searchable PDF content allowing users to quickly locate specific information using keywords.

Binding Type:

N/A (Downloadable PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format, printable on user-selected paper)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

2.8 Liter (2778 cc) Inline-6 (M110)

Engine Performance 1975:

Approx. 136-142 hp (DIN) / 183-192 Nm torque (specifics vary by market and exact tuning)

Engine Performance 1976:

Approx. 136-142 hp (DIN) / 183-192 Nm torque (specifics vary by market and exact tuning)

Fuel System:

Bosch D-Jetronic Fuel Injection (Mechanical)

Bore Stroke:

86.0 mm x 78.8 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.0:1 (typical for 280 S)

Engine Layout:

SOHC Inline-6

Engine Block Material:

Cast Iron

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Valve Train Configuration:

Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC), 2 valves per cylinder

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard:

4-speed Manual Transmission (often referred to as 'Paddel-Schaltung' due to shifter location on steering column for some variants)

Transmission Optional:

3-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., 3HP22 or similar)

Transmission Features:

The manual covers repair and maintenance for both manual and automatic transmissions, including fluid types, capacities, and adjustment procedures.

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Length Mm:

4960 mm (approx.)

Exterior Width Mm:

1790 mm (approx.)

Exterior Height Mm:

1460 mm (approx.)

Wheelbase Mm:

2900 mm (approx.)

Curb Weight Kg:

1600-1700 kg (approx., depending on equipment)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Kg:

Approx. 2200-2300 kg (manual will provide exact figure)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

While formal crash ratings from modern agencies are not directly applicable to this era, the W116 was renowned for its robust construction and passenger safety features for its time, including a strong safety cell.

Active Features:

Four-wheel disc brakes with dual-circuit hydraulic system. The manual will detail ABS systems if fitted to specific export models, though less common on the 280 S of these years.

Passive Features:

Collapsible steering column, impact-absorbing dashboard, reinforced passenger compartment, front and rear crumple zones. Seat belts (three-point front, two-point rear standard, optional three-point rear).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

This era's vehicles typically featured analog radio (AM/FM) with optional cassette player. The manual will cover radio removal/installation and antenna system servicing.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by modern standards. Features like cruise control (optional) and power steering were advanced for their time. The manual covers the mechanical and electrical aspects of these systems.

Connectivity Features:

N/A by modern definition. Communication was limited to the vehicle's internal systems and optional radio/telephone if fitted.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals:

The manual will detail factory-recommended service intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, brake inspections, tune-ups, and other scheduled maintenance tasks, typically ranging from 5,000-10,000 miles for oil changes and annual inspections.

Engine Tune Up Interval:

Factory recommendations for ignition timing adjustments, spark plug replacement, and carburetor/fuel injection system checks, typically at intervals of 15,000-30,000 miles.

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 typically recommended (specific viscosity may depend on climate). Manual will list precise MB specifications (e.g., MB-Approval).

Coolant Specification:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors. Manual will specify Mercedes-Benz coolant type or equivalent. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (manual will confirm precise requirement).

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II or equivalent (manual will list precise MB specification).

Power Steering Fluid:

Mercedes-Benz Specification or Dexron II/III equivalent (manual will confirm).

Differential Fluid:

Hypoid gear oil, SAE 90 or 80W-90 (manual will list specific MB approval).

Common Issues Indicated In Manual:

The manual likely addresses common W116 issues such as fuel injection system adjustments, ignition system maintenance, potential fuel line degradation (especially older rubber components), climate control system operation, and cooling system efficiency.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz, established 1926, synonymous with luxury, engineering excellence, and automotive safety innovation.

Model Evolution:

The W116 was Mercedes-Benz's first model to be officially designated as an 'S-Class'. It represented a significant advancement in automotive design, safety, and engineering for its era, setting new standards for luxury sedans.

Key Advancements Of W116:

Introduced advanced safety features like a reinforced chassis, energy-absorbing steering column, and a dual-circuit braking system. Also pioneered the concept of a global luxury sedan.

Production Years W116:

1972-1980

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (e.g., Sindelfingen plant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The W116 platform itself received numerous accolades for its engineering, safety, and luxury, often being cited as setting the benchmark for premium sedans of the 1970s. While specific awards for the 280 S variant might be less documented, the model series was highly regarded.