🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

124 Wagon

Engine Variant:

300TD Turbo

Engine Displacement:

3.0L (2996cc)

Model Code:

W124

Body Style:

Station Wagon (S124)

Generation Name:

E-Class (First Generation)

Engine Code:

OM603.961

Chassis Code:

S124

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Premium mid-size station wagon known for robust engineering, comfort, and durability.

Competitors:

BMW 5 Series Touring, Audi 100 Avant, Volvo 240/740/940 Wagon

Features:

Overhead camshaft diesel engine, optional self-leveling suspension, excellent build quality, spacious cargo area, legendary Mercedes-Benz longevity.

Manual Value:

Essential resource for maintaining and repairing the iconic W124 Wagon, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive service and repair

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF (Instant Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

OM603.961 3.0L Turbo Diesel, fuel injection, turbocharging, cooling, lubrication, emission control

Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (722.4) overhaul, diagnostics, and fluid services

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive, driveshaft, differential, axle shafts

Suspension:

Front independent suspension (struts, control arms), rear independent suspension (multi-link), springs, shock absorbers, leveling system (if equipped)

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnostics, brake fluid flushing

Steering:

Power-assisted steering system, steering gear, linkages, fluid maintenance

Electrical:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), ignition system (glow plugs), lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays

Body:

Exterior body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, seating, glass, seals, bodywork repair

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, climate control, refrigerant servicing, blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, diesel injection pump and injectors

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, muffler, pipes, emissions control components

Maintenance:

Routine scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, belt tensioning

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting for common issues

Repair:

Component replacement, adjustments, rebuilding procedures for major systems

Diagnostics:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for electrical and mechanical faults

Depth:

Complete overhaul and rebuilding procedures for engine, transmission, and major mechanical components

Detail Level:

Includes torque specifications, clearances, assembly instructions, and specialized tool requirements

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable PDF for quick information retrieval

Quality:

High-resolution scans suitable for printing

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 5-cylinder Turbocharged Diesel

Bore X Stroke:

94.0 mm x 92.3 mm

Compression Ratio:

22.0:1

Horsepower:

125 hp @ 4600 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

230 Nm (170 lb-ft) @ 2400 rpm (approx.)

0-60 Mph:

Approx. 12-14 seconds

Top Speed:

Approx. 115 mph (185 km/h)

Injection Type:

Bosch VE Rotary Injection Pump with mechanical throttle control and turbocharger boost pressure regulation.

Fuel Type:

Diesel fuel

Fuel Filter Part Number:

e.g., Mann Filter WK 80, Mahle KL 131

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic (722.4)

Optional Transmission:

None offered for this specific engine/model combination in these years.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Mercedes-Benz Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) specification 236.6 or equivalent

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 7.0 - 8.0 liters (dry fill)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4740 mm (186.6 in)

Width:

1740 mm (68.5 in)

Height:

1480 mm (58.3 in)

Wheelbase:

2800 mm (110.2 in)

Cargo Volume Seats Up:

Approx. 530 liters (18.7 cu ft)

Cargo Volume Seats Down:

Approx. 1600 liters (56.5 cu ft)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1650 kg (3638 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 2200 kg (4850 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

No specific ratings available for this era, but known for robust construction and safety engineering typical of Mercedes-Benz.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Not typically available for this specific model and year.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag standard from 1987 onwards, potentially optional earlier.

Seatbelts:

Height-adjustable front seatbelts, rear three-point seatbelts.

Body Structure:

Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Radio:

Factory-installed AM/FM radio with cassette player, potentially with upgraded dealer options.

Speakers:

Typically 4-6 speakers, depending on trim level.

Cruise Control:

Optional, electro-mechanical cruise control.

Climate Control:

Optional automatic climate control (Thermotronic) in addition to standard manual HVAC.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on vehicle function and comfort rather than external connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 20,000-30,000 km (12,000-18,000 miles).

Fuel Filter Replacement:

Every 40,000-50,000 km (25,000-30,000 miles).

Transmission Fluid Service:

Every 80,000-100,000 km (50,000-60,000 miles) (flush and filter replacement recommended).

Coolant Flush:

Every 2 years or 40,000 km (25,000 miles).

Engine Oil Spec:

API CD or CE, MB-Approval 228.1 / 228.3 (e.g., Castrol GTX 15W-40, Mobil Delvac 15W-40)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 7.5 liters (8.0 US quarts) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., Mercedes-Benz Antifreeze Z) mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio).

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Diesel Specific:

Glow plug system reliability, vacuum line leaks affecting engine performance, injector pump calibration, potential for injector nozzle clogging.

General W124:

Wiring harness degradation (especially insulation), vacuum actuator failures (door locks, climate control), potential for rust in common areas (wheel arches, door bottoms), front suspension sagging over time, self-leveling suspension leaks.

Recommended Checks:

Regular inspection of all rubber hoses and vacuum lines, checking for coolant leaks, verifying the function of all electrical accessories.

📚 Vehicle History

Mercedes Benz Legacy:

Renowned for engineering excellence, luxury, and pioneering automotive safety and durability.

W124 Development:

Part of the W124 generation, lauded for its over-engineered approach, precise handling, and exceptional build quality, setting new standards for the executive car segment.

S124 Wagon Introduction:

The S124 wagon variant expanded the W124's versatility, offering practicality without compromising the sedan's core attributes.

Production Years Model:

1985-1993 (W124 Sedan), 1985-1996 (S124 Wagon)

Manufacturing Location:

Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

While specific awards for the 1986-1987 300TD Turbo Wagon might not be individually cataloged, the W124 E-Class generation as a whole received numerous accolades for its build quality, safety, and engineering throughout its production run.

Consumer Ratings:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists and owners for its durability, comfort, and long-term value.