Engine:
Detailed service, repair, and diagnostics for gasoline engines (likely M116 3.8L V8 and M117 5.0L V8).
Control System:
Engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics and adjustments, fuel injection system servicing (likely Bosch K-Jetronic).
Mechanical:
Engine internal repairs, cylinder head service, piston and connecting rod work, crankshaft and bearing service.
Fuel Service:
Fuel pump testing, fuel filter replacement, injector diagnostics and replacement, fuel tank service.
Emission Control:
Catalytic converter operation, exhaust system servicing, emission control component testing.
Intake Exhaust Cooling:
Intake manifold service, exhaust manifold repairs, cooling system flush and refill, radiator and thermostat service, water pump replacement.
Lube:
Oil change procedures, lubrication points, oil filter replacement, oil pressure diagnostics.
Ignition Starting Charging:
Ignition system components (distributor, coil, spark plugs), battery testing and replacement, alternator service, starter motor diagnostics.
Auto Transmission:
Service and repair of the Mercedes-Benz 4-speed automatic transmission (likely 722.3 series), fluid and filter changes, torque converter service, internal component diagnostics.
Manual Transmission:
If applicable to specific SE models, service and repair of manual gearboxes.
Transfer Propeller Shaft:
Driveshaft inspection, universal joint replacement, center bearing service.
Drive Shaft:
Rear axle inspection, CV joint service, differential fluid changes.
Differential:
Rear differential inspection, fluid replacement, seal maintenance.
Axle Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component replacement (ball joints, control arms, bushings), shock absorber and strut service, spring replacement.
Tire Wheel:
Wheel alignment procedures, tire pressure specifications, wheel bearing service.
Brake Control:
Brake system bleeding, ABS diagnostics (if equipped), brake booster service.
Brake:
Front and rear brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper servicing, brake line inspection and replacement.
Parking Brake:
Parking brake adjustment and cable replacement.
Steering Column:
Steering column adjustment, ignition switch replacement, steering wheel removal.
Power Steering:
Power steering fluid check and replacement, power steering pump and gearbox diagnostics and repair.
Air Condition:
HVAC system servicing, refrigerant handling, compressor, evaporator, and condenser diagnostics and repair.
Suppl Restraint System:
Seat belt inspection, repair, and replacement (airbags were not standard in 1981).
Seat Belt:
Detailed procedures for seat belt system inspection and replacement.
Engine Immobilizer:
Not applicable to this model year.
Cruise Control:
Cruise control system diagnostics and repair.
Wiper Washer:
Wiper motor, linkage, and washer pump servicing.
Door Lock:
Door lock actuator diagnostics and replacement, central locking system service.
Meter Audio Visual:
Instrument cluster diagnostics, radio and speaker system servicing.
Horn:
Horn system testing and replacement.
Windshield Glass Mirror:
Windshield and window glass removal and installation, mirror adjustment and replacement.
Instrument Panel:
Instrument panel removal and installation, gauge cluster repair.
Seat:
Seat adjustment mechanism servicing, seat upholstery repair.
Engine Hood Door:
Hood and door latch and hinge servicing, panel alignment.
Exterior Interior:
Body panel repair, trim piece replacement, interior component fitting and repair.
Electrical:
Comprehensive wiring schematics, component testing, electrical troubleshooting guides for all vehicle systems.
Multiplex Can Communication:
Not applicable to this model year.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-up procedures.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation across all major vehicle systems.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Symptom-based troubleshooting guides, diagnostic charts, component testing procedures.
Technical Specifications:
Torque values, fluid capacities, diagnostic parameters, alignment specifications.
Depth Of Coverage:
Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Diagnostic Capability:
In-depth diagnostic procedures for mechanical, electrical, and fuel systems.
Rebuild Procedures:
Complete engine, transmission, and differential rebuild instructions.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions.
Transmission Fluid Interval:
Every 50,000-80,000 km (30,000-50,000 miles) for automatic transmission fluid and filter change.
Coolant Interval:
Coolant flush and replacement typically every 2-4 years.
Engine Oil Specification:
Refer to manual for specific SAE viscosity grade (e.g., SAE 20W-50 or 15W-40 depending on climate) and MB-Approval specifications (e.g., MB 227.1, MB 228.0).
Transmission Fluid Specification:
Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (check specific MB-approval for exact type).
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Check manual for specific MB specifications.
Common Issues:
Head gasket leaks, fuel distributor issues (K-Jetronic), vacuum hose deterioration, ABS system faults, wear on suspension bushings, interior wood trim cracking/delamination.