Historical Context:
These models represented Mercedes-Benz's move towards more spacious and refined mid-size sedans in the post-war era, bridging the gap between the smaller Pontons and the larger luxury sedans.
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts and owners of classic Mercedes-Benz sedans seeking to perform maintenance, restoration, or repairs themselves.
Segment:
Mid-size luxury sedan (at the time of production).
Competitors:
Competed with models from Jaguar, Rover, and other European luxury manufacturers.
Vehicle Attributes:
Robust construction, comfortable ride, reliable inline-six engines, and the hallmark Mercedes-Benz build quality and engineering.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides the essential technical knowledge for maintaining and repairing these classic vehicles, crucial for preserving their value and operability.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine disassembly, inspection, repair, assembly, timing, valve adjustments, torque specifications.
Engine Management:
Ignition system (distributor, points, coil, spark plugs), fuel system (carburetor or injection specifics for SE models), cooling system.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (4-speed and optional 4-speed with overdrive) removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly. Automatic transmission (optional Hydrak) details may be included.
Drivetrain:
Clutch, driveshaft, rear axle (differential, half-shafts) service and repair.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system (master cylinder, wheel cylinders, brake lines, hoses), drum brake service (shoe replacement, drum machining), parking brake.
Suspension:
Front independent suspension (double wishbone, coil springs), rear semi-independent suspension (swing axles), shock absorbers, steering linkage service.
Steering:
Steering box, steering column, tie rods, idler arm service.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, starter, alternator/generator, battery, lighting, instrumentation, horn, wipers, and associated component testing and repair.
Body And Chassis:
Frame inspection, body panel removal/installation, doors, windows, locks, trim, and interior component service.
Heating And Ventilation:
Heater core service, ducting, fan operation.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication, spark plug checks, ignition timing, carburetor adjustments, brake fluid changes, coolant flushes.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step guides for identifying and resolving common operational issues across all major systems.
Component Rebuilds:
Detailed instructions for overhauling engines, transmissions, carburetors, brake cylinders, and steering boxes.
Adjustments And Settings:
Precise procedures for setting valve clearances, ignition timing, idle speed, and carburetor mixtures.
Special Tool Identification:
Listing and description of specialized tools required for specific repairs.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic owner maintenance to full engine and drivetrain rebuilds.
Detail Level:
Factory-level detail with exploded diagrams, torque specifications, and clearance measurements.
Engine Type 220A:
M180, 2.2L (2195cc) Naturally Aspirated Inline-6
Engine Type 220S:
M180, 2.2L (2195cc) Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 (with increased power over 220a)
Engine Type 220Se:
M127, 2.2L (2195cc) Fuel-Injected Inline-6 (Bosch mechanical injection)
Horsepower 220A:
Approx. 80 hp @ 4600 rpm
Horsepower 220S:
Approx. 100 hp @ 4800 rpm
Horsepower 220Se:
Approx. 115 hp @ 4800 rpm
Torque 220S:
Approx. 120 lb-ft @ 2700 rpm
Torque 220Se:
Approx. 130 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Fuel System 220A 220S:
Single Solex or Zenith downdraft carburetor
Fuel System 220Se:
Bosch Mechanical Fuel Injection (MFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline
Bore Stroke:
82 mm x 72.8 mm
Compression Ratio 220A 220S:
Approx. 7.0:1
Compression Ratio 220Se:
Approx. 8.0:1
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Manual with Overdrive, Hydrak Automatic Clutch/Transmission (less common, highly desirable)
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate (manual)
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios provided within the manual for each transmission variant.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 6 months, depending on usage and oil quality.
Tune Up Interval:
Recommended annually or every 12,000 miles, involving spark plugs, points, condenser, and filter checks/replacements.
Grease Points:
Regular lubrication of suspension and steering components is critical; intervals vary but often weekly/monthly checks were common practice.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, 20W-50 or 10W-40 recommended for modern formulations; consult manual for original spec (e.g., straight weight oil if applicable).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Heavy Duty Brake Fluid.
Transmission Fluid:
Manual: Gear oil GL-4, SAE 80W-90. Automatic (Hydrak): Dexron II (if applicable, consult manual for exact spec).
Rear Axle Fluid:
Hypoid gear oil SAE 90 or 85W-90 (GL-5 recommended for modern differentials).
Engine Oil Leaks:
Common due to aging seals, gaskets, and valve cover breathers.
Carburetor Issues:
Stalling, rough idle, or poor performance due to wear, dirt, or maladjustment of Solex/Zenith carbs.
Ignition System:
Worn points, condensers, or coils leading to misfires or starting problems.
Brakes:
Seized wheel cylinders or master cylinder due to corrosion and old brake fluid.
Suspension Wear:
Worn ball joints, bushings, and tie rod ends leading to steering looseness and uneven tire wear.
Fuel Injection System 220Se:
Requires specialized knowledge for diagnosis and repair of Bosch MFI; often issues with fuel accumulator, pumps, or injectors.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Building on a legacy of automotive innovation and engineering excellence dating back to the first automobile.
Pontoon Era:
Part of the 'Ponton' Mercedes-Benz family, characterized by their modern, integrated body styling (unit-body construction) that moved away from separate chassis designs.
W180 Introduction:
The W180 chassis (including the 220a and early 220S) was introduced in 1954, featuring a relatively simple 2.2L inline-6 engine.
W128 Introduction:
The W128 chassis (late 220S and 220SE) was introduced in 1956, featuring upgraded styling, improved suspension, and importantly, the fuel-injected 220SE variant.
Production Years:
W180: 1954-1956; W128: 1956-1959
Manufacturing Location:
Stuttgart, West Germany