Model Generation:
First Generation W123
Production Years Covered By Manual:
1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985
Target Audience:
Mercedes-Benz W123 owners with basic mechanical skills, independent auto service professionals, and those seeking to better understand their vehicle.
Value Proposition:
Provides the same information used by authorized dealer service departments, enabling cost savings on maintenance and repairs.
Uniqueness:
Vehicle-specific, not generic. Offers detailed technical data and procedures crucial for maintaining classic Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
Accuracy:
Accurate, clear, and concise text combined with illustrations for ease of use.
Completeness:
Complete and intact, covering all major topics for the specified models and years.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Workshop
Included Sections:
General Information, Engine Mechanical, Engine Electrical, Emission Control, Fuel System, Clutch, Manual Transaxle, Automatic Transaxle, Driveshaft and Axle, Suspension, Steering, Restraint, Brake System, Body (Interior and Exterior), Body Electrical, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning
Estimated Page Count:
Comprehensive (Exact count not specified, but implied to be extensive for full coverage)
Type:
Service and Repair Workshop Manual
Accessibility:
Viewable on PC, Mac, Phones, E-readers (e.g., Kindle)
Engine Mechanical:
Full coverage of engine components, disassembly, assembly, and overhaul.
Engine Electrical:
Detailed diagrams and troubleshooting for ignition, starting, charging, and sensor systems.
Fuel System:
In-depth information on fuel injection (Bosch K-Jetronic for SE) and carburetors (for S), fuel pumps, and lines.
Transmission:
Covers both manual and automatic transmission repair, servicing, and overhaul procedures.
Suspension And Steering:
Detailed procedures for component replacement, alignment, and system diagnostics.
Brakes:
Comprehensive coverage of hydraulic systems, components, and ABS (if equipped on later models).
Body And Interior:
Repair and restoration guidance for both exterior panels and interior trim, including upholstery and dashboard.
Electrical Systems:
Extensive wiring schematics and troubleshooting for all vehicle electrical components, including lighting, instruments, and accessories.
HVAC:
Detailed instructions for servicing and repairing the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
Emission Control:
Information on emission control systems and associated components relevant to the model years.
Maintenance:
Step-by-step instructions for routine maintenance tasks like oil changes, filter replacements, and tune-ups.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic guides and procedures to identify and resolve common and uncommon vehicle issues.
Repair:
Detailed instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation for all major vehicle systems.
Diagnostics:
In-depth diagnostic procedures, including electrical testing and mechanical checks.
Depth:
Comprehensive, dealer-level technical information suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Visuals:
Includes diagrams, illustrations, and wiring schematics to aid in understanding and execution of repairs.
Searchability:
Likely searchable text content within the PDF for quick information retrieval.
Printability:
Fully printable, allowing users to print specific pages for workshop use.
Binding:
Digital (PDF format - no physical binding)
Paper Type:
Not Applicable (Digital format)
Engine Type:
Inline-6 Cylinder (Petrol)
Displacement Common:
2.8 Liters (2746 cc)
Cylinder Head:
DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft)
Horsepower 280S:
Approx. 158-160 hp (depending on year and market)
Torque 280S:
Approx. 220-224 Nm (depending on year and market)
Horsepower 280Se:
Approx. 180-185 hp (often with fuel injection)
Torque 280Se:
Approx. 230-235 Nm (often with fuel injection)
280S Fuel System:
Carbureted (e.g., Solex or Zenith twin-choke)
280Se Fuel System:
Fuel Injection (Bosch K-Jetronic CIS)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (Octane rating specific)
Body Styles:
Sedan (4-door), Coupe (2-door), Estate/Wagon (T-model), Long Wheelbase Sedan (123.023)
Wheelbase Sedan:
Approx. 2795 mm (110.0 in)
Curb Weight Approx:
1450-1550 kg (3200-3400 lbs), varies by body style and equipment.
Historical Safety:
Known for robust construction and good crash safety for its era. Features were advanced for the 1970s and early 1980s.
Available Features:
Four-wheel disc brakes (on most models), power steering, optional ABS (on later models).
Construction:
Reinforced passenger cell, safety-designed steering column, energy-absorbing interior elements.
Original Features:
Basic analog radio (often Becker), analog gauges, and climate controls. Advanced features were minimal by modern standards.
Available Systems:
Power steering, cruise control (optional), and ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) on later models.
Original Connectivity:
None by modern standards; focused on reliable mechanical and electrical systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 15,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used.
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plugs, distributor cap, rotor, and ignition wires typically inspected/replaced around 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or higher, viscosity typically 15W-40 or 20W-50, depending on climate (check specific manual recommendation).
Transmission Fluid Auto:
MB Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) specification, e.g., MB 236.1 or MB 236.2 (older specifications).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specific Mercedes-Benz approved coolant recommended.
Common Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, subframe mounts, vacuum lines (due to age), fuel accumulator (on K-Jetronic), and door seal degradation.
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel arches, rocker panels, rear window seals, and jack points, particularly in areas with road salt.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Reputation for engineering excellence, durability, and luxury since the early 20th century.
W123 Reputation:
The W123 series is renowned for its exceptional build quality, reliability, and longevity, often referred to as one of the most over-engineered cars of its time.
Production Period:
1976-1985
Key Designers:
Bruno Sacco (responsible for overall Mercedes-Benz design language of the era).
