Target Audience:
Do-it-yourselfer (DIY) enthusiasts and experienced professional mechanics
Value Proposition:
Inexpensive way to keep the vehicle working properly, comprehensive repair and maintenance information
Manual Type:
Official Factory Service Manual Equivalent
Content Completeness:
100% Complete and Intact, no missing/corrupt pages/sections
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Models Covered:
300 SD (1981-1985), 300 SDL (1986-1987), 300 SE (1988-1991), 300 SEL (1988-1991), 350 SD (1991), 350 SDL (1990-1991), 380 SE (1984-1985), 380 SEL (1981-1983), 380 SEC (1982-1983), 420 SEL (1986-1991), 500 SEL (1984-1985), 500 SEC (1984-1985), 560 SEL (1986-1991), 560 SEC (1986-1991)
Type:
Complete Official Service and Repair Manual
Delivery Format:
DVD ISO (PDF/HTML/SWF)
Engine Systems:
Engine Overhaul and Rebuilding, Engine Performance, Firing Orders, Serpentine Belt Routings, Timing Belt Service Procedures (where applicable), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System
Drivetrain Systems:
Transmission Removal and Installation, Transmission In-Car Servicing, U-Joint and CV-Joint Service Procedures
Chassis Systems:
Brakes (Servicing Procedures, Complete Torque Specifications), Suspension, Front End and Alignment Procedures and Specifications, Steering System, Driveshafts
Electrical Systems:
Wiring Diagrams, Computer Diagnostic Trouble Tree Charts, Computer Diagnostic Codes
Body And Comfort:
Sunroof, Air Conditioning Service and Capacities, Body and Chassis Electrical, Interior Trim, Exterior Body Panels
Maintenance Procedures:
Factory Maintenance Schedules and Charts, Fluid Capacities, Lubrication Specifications, Filter Replacement, Tune-Up Procedures
Repair Procedures:
Diagnostic and Repair Procedures, Step-by-Step Instructions, Complete Disassembly and Reassembly, Rebuilding Procedures
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Trouble Codes, Troubleshooting and Diagnostics, Diagnostic Trouble Tree Charts, Wiring Schematics
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds, advanced diagnostics, and detailed component repair)
Illustrations Diagrams:
Hundreds of detailed illustrations, exploded diagrams, drawings, and photos
Specifications:
Detailed specifications on every model covered, complete torque specifications, vacuum diagrams, alignment specifications
Engine Types Covered:
Inline-6 (M103, M110), V8 (M116, M117), Diesel (OM617, OM603)
Engine Displacements Liters:
2.8L (M110 - 280 SE/SEL), 3.0L (OM617 - 300 SD, M103 - 300 SE/SEL), 3.5L (OM603 - 350 SD/SDL), 3.8L (M116 - 380 SE/SEL/SEC), 4.2L (M116 - 420 SEL), 5.0L (M117 - 500 SEL/SEC), 5.6L (M117 - 560 SEL/SEC)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 120 HP (300 SD Diesel) to 275 HP (560 SEC)
Torque Range:
Approximately 170 lb-ft (300 SD Diesel) to 317 lb-ft (560 SEC)
Fuel Injection Systems:
Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS), Bosch KE-Jetronic (CIS-E), Bosch ME (for some diesel models)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (various octane ratings), Diesel Fuel
Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., 722.3/722.4), 5-speed Manual Transmission (rare, primarily early models)
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (limited availability, mostly early European models)
Automatic Features:
Hydraulic Torque Converter, Electronic Control (later models), Sport/Economy Modes (on some)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
MB Spec 236.1 (e.g., ATF Dexron II/III compatible)
Crash Test Performance:
Known for robust body structure and safety cage, though official NHTSA/IIHS ratings from the era are less comprehensive than modern standards.
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - standard on most models from mid-production onwards, Power-Assisted Steering, Four-wheel disc brakes
Passive Safety:
Driver and Passenger Airbags (introduced later in production), Seatbelt Pretensioners, Crumple Zones, Reinforced Door Beams
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM Cassette/Radio systems, optional CD changers in later models. Limited integration by modern standards.
Early Assistance Features:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Cruise Control (Standard on most models), Power windows, Power seats, Central locking.
Connectivity Features:
None by modern standards. Analog systems throughout.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific model/engine)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) or as per manual, often with filter replacement
Coolant Change:
Typically every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
Engine Oil Specification:
MB Spec 229.1 (e.g., 10W-40 or 15W-40 synthetic or semi-synthetic depending on climate and engine)
Coolant Specification:
Mercedes-Benz Antifreeze/Coolant (Glysantin G40 or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Problems:
Head gasket leaks (especially on early V8s), fuel distributor issues (K-Jetronic), vacuum line deterioration, electrical component failures (window regulators, climate control), rust (especially wheel wells, rocker panels), self-leveling suspension issues (rear), blower motor resistor failure.
Manufacturer Origin:
Germany
Introduction Year:
1979 (globally), 1981 (North America)
Facelift:
Significant facelift in 1986 (often referred to as the 'Baby Benz' styling cues incorporated, aerodynamic improvements, updated interior, and new engine options like the M103 and OM603)
Production Period:
1979-1991
Notable Variants:
AMG and Brabus tuners offered enhanced performance versions.
