🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

450 SEL

Chassis Code:

W116

Generation Designation:

First Generation W116

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Mercedes-Benz W116 series represented the pinnacle of luxury and engineering in its era, targeting affluent buyers seeking comfort, performance, and prestige. The 450 SEL was the long-wheelbase variant, emphasizing rear passenger space and luxury appointments.

Competitors:

Competed with other high-end luxury sedans of the period such as the Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow, Bentley T-Series, Jaguar XJ, and Cadillac Eldorado.

Features:

Renowned for its robust build quality, sophisticated suspension, powerful V8 engine, and advanced safety features for its time, including a crumple zone design.

📋 Manual Details

Applicable Years:

1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (Exact count not specified, but implies comprehensive coverage)

Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, troubleshooting, diagnostics, specifications

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starting and charging, ECU (if applicable), wiring diagrams

Emission Control:

Components, testing, and servicing of emission control systems

Fuel System:

Fuel injection (Bosch K-Jetronic likely), fuel pump, injectors, lines, tank

Clutch System:

Disc, pressure plate, release bearing, hydraulics (for manual transmission)

Manual Transaxle:

Gearbox overhaul, shifting mechanisms, lubrication

Automatic Transaxle:

Transmission servicing, hydraulic system, torque converter, control adjustments

Driveshaft Axle:

U-joints, CV joints, differential, axle shafts, wheel bearings

Suspension System:

Front and rear suspension components, springs, shock absorbers, bushings, alignment

Steering System:

Power steering pump, gearbox, steering linkage, column, adjustments

Restraint System:

Seat belts, pre-tensioners (if applicable), airbag systems (if equipped)

Brake System:

Hydraulic system, calipers, rotors, pads, lines, parking brake, ABS (if applicable)

Body Interior Exterior:

Panel replacement, trim, doors, windows, upholstery, seals

Body Electrical:

Lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, central locking, wiring diagrams

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system components, refrigerant, servicing

Maintenance:

Routine service, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems

Diagnostics:

Detailed diagnostic trees and symptom-based troubleshooting

Specifications:

Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications

Wiring Schematics:

Comprehensive electrical diagrams for all vehicle systems

Body Work:

Body panel repair, rust mitigation, interior trim installation/removal.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Detailed troubleshooting guides for electrical circuits, component testing, and common wiring faults.

Tune Up:

Ignition timing, spark plug replacement, fuel mixture adjustment (for K-Jetronic), idle speed control.

Wheel Alignment:

Specifications and procedures for front and rear wheel alignment.

Air Conditioning Service:

Refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, receiver/drier, expansion valve), leak detection.

Torque Specifications:

All critical engine, chassis, and body fasteners with detailed torque values.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Systematic approach to diagnosing common problems with clear step-by-step instructions.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to full mechanical and electrical system overhauls, intended for professional mechanics and skilled DIYers.

Scope:

Covers everything from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to in-depth engine and transmission rebuilds, including diagnostics for electronic and mechanical systems of the era.

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

High quality PDF, viewable on PC/Mac, phones, e-readers

Printability:

Fully printable, allowing users to print specific pages as needed.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine:

M117.982 (4.5L V8 SOHC)

Horsepower:

Approximately 180-225 hp (SAE Gross, depending on market and emission controls)

Torque:

Approximately 230-270 lb-ft (SAE Gross)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection

Displacement Cc:

4520 cc

Bore X Stroke Mm:

92.0 mm x 85.0 mm

Ratio:

8.0:1 (typical for US market)

Coolant Type:

Mercedes-Benz Spec 320 (or equivalent antifreeze/water mix)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

3-speed Automatic (722.103, 722.118)

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed Manual (available in some markets, less common)

Fluid Type Automatic:

Dexron II or equivalent (MB Spec 236.3)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Mm:

3050 mm (120.1 in)

Length Mm:

5000 mm (196.9 in)

Width Mm:

1790 mm (70.5 in)

Height Mm:

1480 mm (58.3 in)

Curb Weight Kg:

1800-1900 kg (approx.)

Gross Vehicle Weight Kg:

2350 kg (approx.)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Performance:

While formal crash ratings as we know them today didn't exist, the W116 was designed with advanced safety principles for its era, including a reinforced passenger cell and crumple zones.

Active Safety:

Four-wheel disc brakes, advanced suspension geometry for stable handling, power steering.

Passive Safety:

Reinforced passenger compartment, energy-absorbing steering column, padded interior surfaces, seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic radio with analog tuner, often with cassette player. Speaker systems were typically modest by modern standards.

Driver Assistance Features:

None by modern standards. Focus was on mechanical and structural safety.

Connectivity Features:

Not applicable for this era.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Consult manual for specific recommendations.

Major Service Interval:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles, encompassing more thorough inspections and replacements (e.g., spark plugs, transmission fluid, coolant).

Engine Oil Spec:

API SG/SH or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 often recommended, but check manual for precise viscosity and MB approval (e.g., MB 229.1).

Coolant Spec:

Mercedes-Benz Specification 320 (green coolant) or equivalent G05/G11.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Common Issues:

Fuel distributor and pump issues (K-Jetronic), vacuum line deterioration, aging rubber components (bushings, hoses), power steering leaks, electrical connector corrosion, climate control system complications.

Maintenance Parts Example:

Spark plugs: Bosch W8AC (example), Air filter: Mann-Filter C23215 (example).

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, safety, and luxury vehicles, established over decades of automotive innovation.

Evolution:

The W116 was the first generation of the S-Class, replacing the W108/W109. It introduced significant advancements in safety and luxury features, setting the benchmark for future S-Class models.

Production Years:

1972-1980

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Sindelfingen)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Recognition:

Widely recognized as a benchmark in luxury car manufacturing for its era. Often cited for its pioneering safety features and enduring build quality.

Certifications:

N/A