Positioning:
Premium luxury sedan of its era, representing peak automotive engineering and comfort.
Competitors:
BMW 7 Series, Jaguar XJ, Cadillac Fleetwood.
Luxury Features:
Opulent interior, advanced climate control, power-adjustable seats, refined ride quality.
Performance Focus:
Smooth, powerful V8 engine and comfortable, stable chassis.
Value Proposition:
Provides dealership-level diagnostic and repair information for enthusiasts and owners seeking to maintain their classic Mercedes-Benz.
Primary Focus:
Workshop Service and Repair
Scope:
Comprehensive vehicle service and repair
Estimated Pages:
High (indicative of full workshop manual, exact count not provided in product info)
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Digital Format:
HTML/Flash Menu with PDF chapters
Compatibility:
Windows 95/98/ME/XP/Vista/Win7, Linux, MAC
Engine:
Complete service, repair, and overhaul procedures for the M117 V8 engine.
Brakes:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, and maintenance for hydraulic and ABS systems.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, steering, alignment, and shock absorber service.
Seats:
Adjustment mechanisms, power seat controls, and upholstery repair.
Exterior Trim:
Body panel removal, installation, alignment, and trim component service.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component testing, fuse and relay identification, lighting, and accessories.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection (Bosch K-Jetronic), fuel pump, injectors, and fuel pressure regulator service.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, and fan clutch service.
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, and heat shields.
HVAC System:
Air conditioning, heating, climate control unit, blower motor, and refrigerant service.
Body And Chassis:
Structural components, body repair, door, hood, trunk operation, and glass replacement.
Interior:
Dashboard removal, instrument cluster, center console, and interior trim.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, and general inspections.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major vehicle systems.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic guides, symptom-based troubleshooting, and fault code interpretation.
Diagnostics:
Procedures for testing sensors, actuators, and electrical components.
Rebuilding:
Full engine and transmission rebuilding instructions.
Depth:
Advanced diagnostic and repair procedures, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIYers.
Primary Format:
HTML/Flash Menu with embedded PDF chapters
Searchability:
Likely searchable within PDF chapters (depending on PDF creation)
Navigation:
Navigable via HTML/Flash menu, allowing quick access to sections.
Quality:
High (typical for factory manuals, though digital rendition quality may vary).
Binding:
N/A (Digital format)
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital format)
Displacement:
4973 cc (5.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
96.0 mm x 85.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
9.0:1 (approximate)
Horsepower:
230 hp @ 4750 rpm (approximate for US spec)
Torque:
280 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm (approximate for US spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch K-Jetronic CIS (Continuous Injection System)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition System (CDI)
Type:
4-speed Automatic (4G-TRONIC)
Options:
N/A for 500SEL in this period, standard automatic transmission.
Shift Modes:
Comfort / Sport (C/S) modes
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III/Mercon (or equivalent specification MB 236.1)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 8-9 Liters (including torque converter, check dipstick)
Crash Test Results:
N/A for era, but W126 chassis known for robust construction and safety engineering.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on 500SEL.
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (ASR) became available later in the W126 lifecycle, may not be standard for '84-'85 500SEL.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag became an option and eventually standard during the W126 production, likely optional or standard on 500SEL for these years.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts front and rear.
Crumple Zones:
Engineered crumple zones for enhanced occupant protection.
Audio System:
Optional premium sound systems, analog radio tuners, cassette players.
Climate Control:
Automatic Climate Control (ACC) with advanced thermal management and air recirculation.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Power Steering:
Hydraulic power steering with variable assist.
Connectivity Features:
N/A for modern standards; basic analog systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000-15,000 km or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for specific interval).
Major Service Interval:
Comprehensive inspection and service at 40,000-60,000 km intervals (major services typically include transmission fluid, differential fluid, coolant, spark plugs, belts).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (depending on climate). Consult manual for precise recommendation.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 Liters (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz approved coolant (e.g., G05 or equivalent) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Engine Oil Leaks:
Common leaks from valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and front/rear main seals.
Cooling System Hoses:
Degradation and cracking of rubber hoses over time.
Fuel System Components:
Aging of K-Jetronic components like frequency valve, airflow sensor, and injectors.
Electrical Connectors:
Corrosion or degradation of electrical connectors, especially in the engine bay.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear and tear on rubber suspension bushings, leading to poor handling and ride comfort.
Oil Filter Example:
Mann-Filter W1314/1, Mahle OX 35D (confirm with chassis VIN)
Air Filter Example:
Mann-Filter C35100, Mahle LX 79 (confirm with chassis VIN)
Brand Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz renowned for engineering excellence, luxury, and durability since its inception.
W126 Introduction:
The W126 S-Class was introduced in 1979 as a successor to the W116, featuring aerodynamic design and improved safety.
W126 Updates:
Facelift in 1985 brought minor styling changes, new engine options, and improved features. The 500SEL was a prominent model in the lineup.
Production Period:
1979–1991
Manufacturing Location:
Germany (primarily Sindelfingen)
