Market Positioning:
Premium executive sedan known for build quality, durability, and engineering excellence
Competitors:
BMW 5 Series (E28), Audi 100, Volvo 700 Series, Cadillac Seville, Lincoln Continental
Key Features:
Robust construction, comfortable ride, sophisticated engineering, durable M110 engine, high safety standards for its era
Manual Value:
Essential for owners and independent mechanics to maintain and repair a complex, high-quality vintage automobile, saving significant costs compared to dealership service.
Applicable Model Years:
1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985
Vehicle Variants Covered:
280E (fuel-injected gasoline model)
Estimated Page Count:
Varies, typically 500+ pages for comprehensive factory manuals
Manual Type:
Factory Service and Repair Manual
Engine:
Complete overhaul, disassembly, reassembly, timing, valve adjustments, lubrication, cooling system, fuel injection system (Bosch K-Jetronic)
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission service, fluid changes, internal repairs, clutch replacement (for manual)
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, universal joints, differential, rear axle service
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, brake pads, rotors, calipers, master cylinder, proportioning valve, parking brake
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, ball joints, control arms, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gearbox, tie rods, steering column, alignment
Electrical:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, horn, wipers, power windows
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, fuel tank, fuel injection components (air flow meter, injectors, pressure regulator)
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter (later models), mufflers, pipes, oxygen sensor (later models)
Climate Control:
HVAC system, blower motor, heater core, evaporator, refrigerant, AC compressor
Body And Trim:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass, interior trim, bumpers
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnosis, diagnostic procedures for fuel injection and ignition
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all systems
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, belt adjustments, lubrication points
Repair Procedures:
Component removal, installation, rebuilding, and adjustment for all major systems
Troubleshooting Guides:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults
Overhaul Procedures:
Detailed instructions for complete engine and transmission overhauls
Adjustment Procedures:
Valve clearance, ignition timing, idle speed, fuel mixture (CO adjustment), suspension alignment
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced electrical diagnostics
Engine Type:
Inline-6 Cylinder, Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC)
Displacement:
2.8 Liters (2799 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
86.5 mm x 80.25 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.0:1 or 8.4:1 (depending on market and year)
Horsepower Hp:
180 PS (178 hp) @ 5800 rpm (approx. for early models)
Torque Lb Ft:
188 lb-ft (255 Nm) @ 4000 rpm (approx. for early models)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch K-Jetronic Continuous Fuel Injection (CIS)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating 91+ recommended)
Oil Capacity Liters:
7.5 Liters (with filter)
Coolant Capacity Liters:
10.0 Liters
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition (breakerless distributor)
Oil Change Interval Km:
10,000 km (6,000 miles) or 12 months
Major Service Interval Km:
40,000 km (25,000 miles) or 24 months
Engine Oil Specification:
API SF/CD, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (depending on climate)
Coolant Specification:
Mercedes-Benz Specification 325.0 (Ethylene Glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Common Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, shock absorbers, fuel distributor seals, vacuum lines, heater control valves, rust (especially wheel arches, door bottoms, trunk floor).
Engine Specific Concerns:
M110 engine: Timing chain stretch, valve stem seals, fuel distributor issues if neglected. K-Jetronic: sensitivity to fuel pressure and air leaks.
