Vehicle Segment:
Compact SUV / Off-roader (early definition), robust and utilitarian.
Key Competitors Era:
Land Rover Series III, Jeep CJ series, Toyota Land Cruiser (early models), Nissan Patrol.
Design Philosophy:
Purpose-built, military-derived, extreme off-road capability, rugged construction, durability.
Target Audience:
Off-road enthusiasts, military, utility users, individuals seeking extreme durability.
Covered Years:
1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991
Manual Category:
Workshop Service Manual
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnosis, tuning, fuel injection system (K-Jetronic), ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, emissions control.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (4-speed, 5-speed), automatic transmission (optional), clutch system, transfer case, driveline components (propeller shafts, differentials).
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, parking brake, hydraulic system, bleeding procedures, component replacement (calipers, pads, drums, shoes).
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, starter motor, alternator, battery, lighting systems, instrument cluster, fuses, relays, diagnostic procedures for electrical faults, power windows, central locking (if equipped).
Chassis And Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components (leaf springs, shock absorbers, control arms), steering system (power steering), wheel alignment, chassis lubrication points.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, seating, heating and ventilation system, body sealing.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, lubrication, belt adjustments.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems, component replacement, troubleshooting common failures, detailed torque specifications.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides for engine performance, electrical issues, and mechanical failures.
Specifications:
Detailed technical specifications for all components, including tolerances, clearances, and critical measurements.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes diagnostic procedures and detailed component repair instructions.
Image Resolution:
High-resolution, suitable for clear viewing of diagrams and text.
Digital Format Advantage:
Instant download, no shipping, accessible on multiple devices.
Digital Representation:
PDF format, mimicking the layout and content of a factory-issued manual.
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, Spark Ignition
Displacement:
2.8 Liters (2799 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
103.0 mm x 81.0 mm
Valve Train:
Overhead Camshaft (OHC), 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower Net:
125 PS (92 kW) at 5000 rpm (approx.)
Torque Net:
213 Nm (157 lb-ft) at 3250 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Injection:
Bosch K-Jetronic Continuous Injection (CIS)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as per market specifications, typically 95 RON)
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition (Distributor-based)
Type:
4-Speed Manual (G3/36-450 or similar)
Type:
4-Speed Automatic (e.g., 722.3 variant)
Transfer Case:
2-Speed Transfer Case with locking center differential (standard)
Gear Ratios Manual:
Specific ratios vary by gearbox, but typically low range gearing for off-road use.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
MB Spec 235.1 (API GL-4 or GL-5 rated, e.g., SAE 80W/90)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
MB Spec 236.1 (Dexron III or equivalent)
Transfer Case Fluid:
MB Spec 235.1 (API GL-4 or GL-5 rated, e.g., SAE 80W/90)
Wheelbase Short Wheelbase:
2400 mm (approx.)
Wheelbase Long Wheelbase:
2850 mm (approx.)
Length Short Wheelbase:
4060 mm (approx.)
Length Long Wheelbase:
4550 mm (approx.)
Height:
1930 mm (approx.)
Curb Weight:
1950 - 2100 kg (approx., depending on configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
2800 kg (approx.)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 2500 kg (braked, varies by specification)
Approach Angle:
45 degrees (approx.)
Departure Angle:
35 degrees (approx.)
Breakover Angle:
25 degrees (approx.)
Ground Clearance:
205 mm (approx.)
Crash Test Data Availability:
Limited data for this era and vehicle type, emphasis on robust construction.
Braking System:
Front disc, Rear drum. ABS was not standard on early models.
Body Structure:
Extremely robust ladder frame chassis and reinforced body construction, designed for durability and off-road protection.
Seatbelts:
Standard three-point front seatbelts, lap belts in rear.
Radio System:
Typically factory fitted analogue radio, cassette player optional. Basic functionality.
ABS Availability:
Not standard on early W460 models, might be present on later year variants as an option.
Traction Control:
Not available on this model.
Auxiliary Input:
Not available on factory systems of this era.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 km or annually (approx., refer to manual for exact schedule).
Filter Replacement:
Oil filter with every oil change. Air filter and fuel filter at recommended intervals (e.g., 15,000 - 30,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 - 30,000 km (depending on type).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 40,000 - 60,000 km for manual and automatic transmissions.
Engine Oil Grade:
SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (API SF/CD or SG/CE rated).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 7.5 Liters (with filter change).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, MB Spec 325.0 (typically a green or yellow coolant).
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 10.5 Liters.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Wear Items:
Leaf springs, shock absorbers, tie rod ends, ball joints, exhaust system components, clutch wear (manual transmission).
Engine Specific:
K-Jetronic fuel system can be sensitive to vacuum leaks and requires proper adjustment. Valve stem seals can degrade over time leading to oil consumption.
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel arches, rocker panels, chassis frame, tailgate, around windows.
Manufacturer Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz: Renowned for engineering excellence, luxury, and durability across its automotive history.
G Wagen Genesis:
Conceived in response to a military requirement for a versatile off-road vehicle. Civilian versions introduced in 1972. W460 is the first production series.
Manufacturing Location:
Graz, Austria (by Magna Steyr under contract for Mercedes-Benz)
Production Period W460:
1979-1991
