Segment:
Luxury/Executive Sedan (for its time)
Competitors:
Competed with other premium European sedans and luxury marques of the 1950s and early 1960s, offering Mercedes-Benz's renowned build quality and engineering.
Distinguishing Elements:
Robust build, comfortable ride, distinctive styling, and the reliable M180 engine, representing Mercedes-Benz's post-war resurgence.
Systems Covered:
Engine (M180), Clutch, Transmission, Propeller Shaft, Fuel System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Electrical System, Chassis, Bodywork, Suspension, Steering, Brakes
Estimated Pages:
Detailed content suggests a comprehensive manual, likely exceeding 500 pages, typical for workshop manuals of this era.
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Likely a digital format (PDF) for modern accessibility, or potentially a professionally reprinted physical copy.
Engine Systems:
Detailed diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures for the M180 engine, including cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, valve train, timing, lubrication, cooling, and fuel injection/carburetion systems.
Drivetrain Systems:
Complete coverage of the clutch assembly, manual transmission overhaul, propeller shaft maintenance and repair, and differential unit.
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, troubleshooting for lighting, ignition, charging system (generator/alternator), starting system, and auxiliary components.
Chassis Systems:
Detailed information on suspension components (front and rear), steering gear, brake system (including hydraulics and possibly drum/disc specifics), and wheel alignment procedures.
Bodywork And Interior:
Procedures for body panel adjustments, door mechanisms, interior trim removal/installation, and potentially basic body repair guidelines.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, lubrication points, fluid level checks and changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, valve adjustments.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common engine performance issues, starting problems, electrical faults, and drivability concerns, often with symptom-based guides.
Repair And Overhaul:
Step-by-step instructions for engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake component replacement, suspension work, and other significant repairs.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repair operations.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes and tune-ups to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic data.
Digital Format Details:
If PDF: Searchable text, bookmarked chapters, high-resolution diagrams. Printable pages for workshop use.
Physical Format Details:
If printed: High-quality paper, durable binding (e.g., comb binding, spiral binding, or hardcover) suitable for workshop environments, clear reproduction of diagrams and text.
Binding:
Variable, depending on the reproduction. Original manuals often had durable bindings. Reprints may vary.
Paper Quality:
Ideally, thick, matte paper to reduce glare and withstand handling in a workshop.
Engine Type:
Inline-6, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Displacement:
2195 cc (2.2 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
82 mm x 71 mm (approximate)
Compression Ratio:
Typically 7.5:1 to 8.0:1, depending on specific variant and market.
Horsepower Net:
Approx. 100-105 hp (metric PS) at around 4800-5000 rpm (varied by carburetor setup and tuning).
Torque Net:
Approx. 150-160 Nm (111-118 lb-ft) at around 2500-3000 rpm.
Carburetor Type:
Typically twin Solex downdraft carburetors (e.g., Solex 32 PAITA) on the 220S; single carburetor on the 220A.
System:
Distributor-based, coil ignition system.
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5.5 - 6.0 liters (including filter).
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 10-12 liters.
Type:
4-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
Optional 3-speed Automatic Transmission (Hydrak) was available on some models.
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios are detailed within the manual for optimal performance and engine RPM management.
Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity typically SAE 80W-90. Manual specifies exact Mercedes-Benz approved fluid.
Crash Safety Era Context:
Safety standards of the 1950s and early 1960s. Focused on structural integrity and basic occupant protection, lacking modern airbags or advanced crumple zones.
Braking System:
Hydraulically operated drum brakes on all four wheels. Dual-circuit system for redundancy. The manual details brake fluid type and bleeding procedures.
Seat Belts:
Seat belts were often optional or not standard on vehicles of this period, but the manual might cover their installation points or requirements if factory-fitted.
Construction:
Body-on-frame construction with a robust passenger cell, typical of Mercedes-Benz engineering for durability and passenger safety.
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000 km (3,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first. Manual provides exact intervals and oil type.
Tune Up:
Regular checks of ignition timing, spark plugs, carburetor adjustment, and valve clearances every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles).
Engine Oil:
API Service Classification: SC/SD or equivalent for the era. Viscosity: SAE 20W-50 or 30W recommended for ambient temperatures. Manual specifies exact Mercedes-Benz approved oils and grades.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixture. Manual specifies the correct ratio and recommended types.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 glycol-based brake fluid. Manual specifies exact requirements and change intervals.
Common Wear Items:
Carburetor synchronization and adjustment, ignition system components (points, condenser, coil), fuel pump, water pump seals, and potential exhaust system leaks.
Engine Specific:
Valve guide wear, potential for carbon buildup in combustion chambers, and timing chain stretch over high mileage.
Oil Filter:
Specific part numbers for oil filters (e.g., Mann-Filter W 103, equivalent to Bosch 0 451 103 006 or FRAM PH13, though specific Mercedes-Benz numbers are best referenced from the manual).
Legacy:
Part of Mercedes-Benz's esteemed post-war automotive lineage, known for quality, reliability, and engineering excellence.
Generation:
The W180 chassis represented a significant step in Mercedes-Benz's mid-size luxury sedan offerings, evolving from earlier models and paving the way for subsequent designs.
Production Years:
1954-1959
Manufacturing Location:
Stuttgart, Germany
Automotive Press:
Vehicles of this era were often lauded by automotive press for their build quality, engineering prowess, and luxurious appointments, cementing Mercedes-Benz's reputation.
Reliability Perception:
Generally regarded as highly reliable and durable vehicles, characteristic of Mercedes-Benz products, though requiring diligent maintenance.
