Vehicle Class:
Luxury Grand Tourer Coupe
Target Audience:
Owners seeking detailed maintenance and repair information for their classic Mercedes-Benz
Competitors Era:
BMW 6 Series, Jaguar XJ-S, Porsche 928
Vehicle Design:
Iconic pillarless coupe design by Bruno Sacco, excellent aerodynamics
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive factory-level repair and maintenance knowledge for DIY or professional use.
Engine:
All aspects of the M116 V8 engine (3.8L)
Fuel System:
Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection, fuel pump, lines, injectors
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition, distributors, spark plugs, coils
Transmission:
4-speed automatic transmission (722.3)
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive, driveshaft, differential
Suspension:
Front independent suspension (struts, control arms), rear independent suspension (semi-trailing arms), springs, shocks, sway bars
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components, hydraulic system
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gearbox, linkages
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams, lighting, accessories
Climate Control:
Air conditioning system, heater core, climate control module
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, glass, structural components
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, mufflers, pipes
Cooling System:
Radiator, coolant hoses, water pump, thermostat
Comfort Features:
Power windows, seats, mirrors, sunroof (if equipped)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, fluid level checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues across all systems
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair
Rebuilding:
Engine, transmission, and other major component rebuild procedures
Adjustments:
Valve adjustments, ignition timing, idle speed, fuel system adjustments
Diagnostic Charts:
Flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all circuits
Level Of Detail:
Professional-grade, comprehensive coverage
Diagrams Illustrations:
Hundreds of detailed photos and exploded diagrams
Component Identification:
Clear identification of all parts and sub-assemblies
Torque Specifications:
All necessary torque values for fasteners
Clearances Tolerances:
Engine component clearances, bearing tolerances, etc.
Era Specific Ratings:
NHTSA ratings not directly comparable to modern standards; focused on passive safety features for its time.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver airbag (optional early, standard later in W126 production, likely standard for 1982-83 models as an option that became common)
Seatbelts:
Inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners
Chassis Design:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil, consult manual for specific type).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 60,000 km or 36 months (filter replacement usually done concurrently).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Bosch W10AC or equivalent, typically every 20,000-30,000 km.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3, viscosity SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (consult manual for exact recommendation and synthetic options).
Coolant Specification:
MB-Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G48 concentrate mixed 1:1 with distilled water)
Headliner Sagging:
Common issue with aging adhesive, leading to sagging fabric.
Window Regulator Failure:
Electrically operated window mechanisms can wear out.
Rubber Seals Deterioration:
Door, window, and sunroof seals degrade with age, leading to leaks.
K-Jetronic Issues:
Fuel pressure regulator, air flow meter, and injectors can be sensitive to dirt and age.
Climate Control Actuators:
Vacuum actuators for climate control flaps can fail.
