🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

E-Class (W124)

Year:

1986

Chassis Code:

W124

Product Code Identifier:

1986 W124 E Service and Repair Manual

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Mercedes-Benz W124 owners, DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops

Luxury Segment Competitors:

Competed with vehicles like the BMW 5 Series (E28/E34), Audi 100/200, Volvo 740/760, and Cadillac Sedan de Ville.

Advantage:

Provides exact dealer-level information, comprehensive coverage, digital convenience

Feature 1:

Vehicle-specific, not generic

Feature 2:

Step-by-step instructions with diagrams and illustrations

Feature 3:

Includes wiring schematics and technical specifications

Feature 4:

All-inclusive A-Z repair coverage

Feature 5:

Digital format offers convenience, searchability, and selective printing

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service, Repair, Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting

Model Scope:

All W124 E-Class models for 1986

Estimated Pages:

Extensive (exact count not specified, but described as 'complete' and 'everything you will ever need')

Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual (FSM)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

Accessibility:

Easy-to-use PDF format, allowing users to print only necessary pages.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine mechanical, control system, fuel service, emission control, intake, exhaust, cooling, lubrication, ignition, starting, charging

Transmission:

Automatic transmission, manual transmission, clutch, transfer case (if applicable), propeller shaft, drive shaft, differential, axle

Suspension Steering:

Axle suspension, steering column, power steering, wheel alignment

Brakes:

Brake control, brake systems (including ABS if equipped on 1986 models), parking brake

Electrical Body:

Electrical system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, climate control (air conditioning), supplemental restraint system (SRS), seat belts, bodywork (doors, hood, glass, mirrors), interior trim, door locks, wiper/washer systems, horn, audio/visual systems, cruise control

Diagnostics:

Advanced diagnostics and troubleshooting procedures for all systems

Body And Frame:

Body shell construction, chassis components, repair of structural elements, door mechanisms, hood and trunk latches.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, inspections

Repair:

Component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major systems

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts, symptom analysis, fault code interpretation (if applicable)

Wiring Schematics:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems

Engine Rebuild:

Comprehensive procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly, including valve adjustments, piston ring replacement, and bearing service.

Suspension Overhaul:

Detailed instructions for replacing ball joints, control arms, bushings, springs, and shock absorbers.

Brake System Overhaul:

Procedures for brake caliper service, rotor replacement, brake line replacement, and ABS component diagnosis/replacement.

Depth:

Vehicle-specific, dealer-level technical information for comprehensive repair and maintenance

Diagnostic Tools Required:

Likely specifies the use of specialized Mercedes-Benz diagnostic tools of the era, but also provides methods for non-specialized tool users.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text content within the PDF

Printability:

All pages printable, with option to enlarge images

Binding:

N/A (Digital format, no physical binding)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format, no physical paper type)

Software:

Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip (free)

Operating System Compatibility:

Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac compatible

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 1986:

Likely covers multiple engine variants available in 1986, including petrol and diesel. Common W124 engines for this period include M102 (2.3L, 2.6L) and OM601/OM602 (2.0L Diesel, 2.3L Diesel).

Horsepower Torque Data:

Detailed specifications for horsepower and torque for each covered engine variant will be present.

Fuel System Details:

Coverage of fuel injection systems (e.g., K-Jetronic, KE-Jetronic), carburetion (less common on later 1986 models), fuel pump, injectors, and fuel pressure specifications.

Engine Control Unit Diagnosis:

Information on ECU operation, sensor inputs, and diagnostic procedures related to engine control.

Ignition System Details:

Information on electronic ignition systems, coil packs, distributor, spark plugs, and timing specifications.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

Likely includes coverage for the 4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., 722.3) which was common, and potentially the 5-speed manual transmission.

Optional Transmission Type:

Details on manual transmission options if available for the 1986 model year.

Transmission Fluid Specifications:

Specific Mercedes-Benz approved transmission fluid types and capacities (e.g., ATF Dexron II).

Torque Converter Service:

Procedures for service and replacement of the torque converter.

Gearbox Overhaul:

Detailed instructions for the overhaul of both manual and automatic transmissions, including torque specifications for internal components.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2795 mm (110 inches) for most W124 sedans.

Length:

Approximately 4740 mm (186.6 inches) for sedans.

Width:

Approximately 1740 mm (68.5 inches).

Height:

Approximately 1420 mm (55.9 inches).

Curb Weight:

Varies by engine and equipment, typically around 1400-1600 kg (3086-3527 lbs).

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Will be specified for each model variant.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

While formal crash test ratings were less standardized in 1986, the W124 was known for its robust body structure and safety features for the era. The manual will detail safety systems. The W124 platform was considered one of the safest of its time.

Anti Lock Braking System ABS:

ABS was an option on some 1986 W124 models and will have detailed diagnostic and repair information.

Headlight Leveling System:

Information on headlight adjustment and leveling systems (if equipped).

Supplemental Restraint System Srs:

Details on SRS, including airbag system components, sensors, and service procedures (if equipped).

Seat Belts:

Information on seat belt systems, pre-tensioners (if applicable), and maintenance.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Coverage:

Information on the factory-installed audio systems, including troubleshooting and potential upgrades.

Instrument Panel Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting procedures for warning lights, gauges, and the instrument cluster itself.

Cruise Control System:

Detailed service and diagnostic information for the cruise control system.

Multiplex Can Communication:

While CAN communication as we know it today was not prevalent, the manual mentions 'Multiplex/Can Communication'. This likely refers to proprietary data communication systems or early forms of multiplexing used in the vehicle's electrical systems, with detailed schematics and diagnostic information.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, depending on service type and driving conditions. Specifics will be in the manual.

Major Service Intervals:

Details on scheduled maintenance items at various mileage or time intervals (e.g., spark plugs, fuel filter, air filter, coolant).

Engine Oil Type:

Likely SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 for diesel and certain petrol engines, or 5W-40/10W-40 synthetic for higher performance. Mercedes-Benz specifications (e.g., MB 229.1, MB 228.3) are crucial and will be detailed.

Coolant Type:

Typically a silicate-free antifreeze/coolant concentrate (e.g., MB-Approval 325.0 or similar). The manual will specify the correct Mercedes-Benz specification.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid, depending on the specific brake system components and ABS. Manual will specify.

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Specific hydraulic fluid for power steering systems, likely a hydraulic fluid meeting MB specification.

Differential Fluid Type:

Gear oil specification for the rear differential, typically API GL-5 rated.

Common W124 Issues General:

While the manual is for repair, common W124 concerns often include wiring harness degradation (especially insulation), head gasket leaks (on some engines), vacuum leaks, rust (though the W124 was better than predecessors), and wear on suspension components. The manual will guide diagnosis and repair of these and more.

Fuel System Issues:

Potential issues with K-Jetronic/KE-Jetronic components like the airflow meter, warm-up regulator, and fuel distributors. The manual will have troubleshooting guides.

📚 Vehicle History

Mercedes Benz Legacy:

Represents Mercedes-Benz's commitment to engineering excellence, durability, and comfort.

W124 Introduction:

The W124 generation was introduced in late 1984 (as a 1985 model) and represented a significant evolution in Mercedes-Benz mid-size luxury car design and engineering, succeeding the W123.

W124 Design Philosophy:

Emphasized aerodynamic efficiency, safety, and ride comfort.

Production Years:

1984-1995 (as W124), with the sedan body style being the primary focus for this era.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Design And Engineering Accolades:

The W124 generation is widely recognized for its exceptional build quality, durability, and engineering prowess, often referred to as the 'last of the over-engineered' Mercedes-Benz cars. While specific awards for the 1986 model might not be directly listed, its overall reputation reflects significant industry recognition.