Model:
W108 / W113 Series (S-Class / SL)
Type:
Passenger Car (PKW)
Chassis Code:
W108 (S-Class Sedans), W113 (SL Roadster/Coupe)
Internal Project Codes:
W108, W109, W111, W112 (partial overlap for components), W113
Target Audience:
Owners and independent repair shops of Mercedes-Benz W108 and W113 series vehicles
Value Proposition:
Enables significant cost savings on vehicle maintenance and repair by empowering owners to perform tasks themselves
Ease Of Use:
Designed for ease of understanding with clear, step-by-step instructions and visuals
Availability:
Instant digital delivery post-purchase
Service And Repair Scope:
Complete A-Z service and repair procedures
Estimated Pages:
Extensive (specific count not provided, but implied to be comprehensive)
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Delivery Format:
Downloadable Digital File
Accessibility:
Printable, Tablet/Smartphone Compatible
Required Software:
Adobe Reader
Powertrain:
Engine (M108, M109, M114, M115, M116, M117, M130), Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System
Transmission:
Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission (e.g., 3-speed, 4-speed)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Hydraulic, Disc/Drum)
Electrical:
Ignition System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Wiring Diagrams
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Trim, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning)
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Troubleshooting and Repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics
Adjustments:
Carburetor Adjustments, Ignition Timing, Valve Clearances
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics
Detail Level:
Step-by-step instructions with illustrations/pictures
W108 Sedan Engines:
M108 (2.5L Inline-6), M109 (3.0L V8 - 300SEL 6.3), M114 (2.3L Inline-6 - 230, 230S), M115 (2.2L Inline-4 - 220, 220S, 220D), M116 (3.5L V8 - 280SE 3.5), M117 (4.5L V8 - 280SE 4.5, 300SEL 4.5)
W113 Sl Engines:
M127 (2.3L Inline-6 - 230SL), M129 (2.5L Inline-6 - 250SL), M130 (2.8L Inline-6 - 280SL)
Typical Horsepower Range:
90 HP (Diesel) to 230 HP (V8 models), depending on specific engine and tune
Typical Torque Range:
150 Nm to 345 Nm (approximate, varies by engine)
Carbureted Engines:
Zenith, Solex, or SU Carburetors (e.g., 230SL, 230S)
Fuel Injection:
Bosch Mechanical Fuel Injection (e.g., M116, M117 V8s, 280SL)
Diesel Fuel System:
Bosch Inline Injection Pump (for 220D)
W108 Standard Transmission:
4-speed Manual (floor shift or column shift)
W113 Standard Transmission:
4-speed Manual (floor shift)
W108 Optional Transmission:
4-speed Automatic (e.g., 300SEb, 280SE, 300SEL)
W113 Optional Transmission:
4-speed Automatic (e.g., 230SL, 250SL, 280SL)
Automatic Transmission Type:
Mercedes-Benz hydraulically controlled automatic transmission
Safety Standards:
Designed to contemporary European safety standards of the era
Braking System:
Hydraulically assisted, front disc brakes standard on most models, rear drum brakes. Power assist standard.
Steering System:
Recirculating ball steering; power steering widely available or standard on higher-end models.
Body Structure:
Integrated safety cell construction with crumple zones.
Seatbelts:
Provision for seatbelts; factory-fitted or dealer-installed based on market and options.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 km or 6 months (refer to specific engine and oil type)
Major Service Interval:
Varies significantly, often around 30,000 - 50,000 km for extensive checks and component replacements
Engine Oil Recommendation:
API SE/SF or equivalent, SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 depending on climate (specific grades in manual)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant with anti-corrosion additives (e.g., MB-Approval 325.0)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Automatic: Dexron II or equivalent. Manual: SAE 90 GL-4 Gear Oil (specific Mercedes specs apply)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid (non-silicone based)
Common Wear Items:
Rubber hoses and seals (perishing due to age), Ball joints and tie rod ends (suspension wear), Heater control valve, Ignition components (points, condenser, rotor), Carburetor sealing rings.
Body Corrosion:
Prone to rust in typical areas such as wheel arches, sills, door bottoms, and rear spring pockets.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Reputation for engineering excellence, build quality, and durability dating back to the early 20th century.
W108 Lineage:
Successor to the W112 S-Class, representing a significant step in design and technology for Mercedes-Benz's luxury sedans.
W113 Lineage:
Replaced the elegant 300SL 'Gullwing' and 'Roadster' and the 190SL, blending sporting character with luxury and comfort.
Production Years W108:
1965 - 1972
Production Years W113:
1963 - 1971
Design Philosophy:
Emphasized robust engineering, classic styling, and luxurious comfort, setting benchmarks for the era.
Design Awards:
W113 'Pagoda' SL models are celebrated for their timeless Paul Bracq design and are considered automotive icons.
Build Quality Reputation:
Consistently rated highly for durability and robust engineering by automotive historians and enthusiasts.
Historical Significance:
Represent a golden era for Mercedes-Benz, showcasing advanced automotive engineering for their time.
