Introduction
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Market Position
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Era Positioning:
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The Mercedes-Benz W114/W115 series represented Mercedes-Benz's entry into a more compact executive sedan market, balancing luxury, engineering quality, and a more accessible price point compared to larger S-Class models.
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Competitive Analysis
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Competitors:
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Competed with vehicles like BMW 3.0 CS, Alfa Romeo Alfetta, Jaguar XJ6 (though larger), and high-end offerings from American manufacturers depending on market.
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Key Features
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Engineering Focus:
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Robust engineering, advanced (for the time) suspension, comfortable ride, build quality.
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Target Audience:
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Professionals, families seeking a reliable and prestigious European sedan.
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Manual Coverage
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Systems Covered
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Powertrain:
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Engine (maintenance, overhaul, tuning), Fuel System (carburetor/injection), Cooling System, Exhaust System.
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Drivetrain:
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Transmission (manual and automatic), Clutch, Driveshafts, Differentials, Axles.
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Suspension Steering:
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Front and Rear Suspension (independent/semi-independent), Shock Absorbers, Springs, Steering System (power steering components).
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Brakes:
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Brake System (hydraulic, disc/drum configurations), Parking Brake, Fluid Maintenance.
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Electrical:
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Electrical System, Battery, Charging System (alternator), Ignition System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Starter Motor, Wiring Diagrams.
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Body Chassis:
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Bodywork Repair, Doors, Windows, Upholstery, Chassis Lubrication, Structural Components.
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Procedures Included
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Maintenance:
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Routine Maintenance Checks, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication Schedules, Tune-ups.
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Repair Overhaul:
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Engine Rebuilding, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repairs, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair.
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Diagnostics:
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Troubleshooting Guides for common problems, Diagnostic procedures for various systems.
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Adjustments:
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Carburetor Adjustment, Ignition Timing, Valve Clearance, Brake Adjustment.
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Technical Depth
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Depth:
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Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed specifications and diagnostic steps.
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Engine Specifications
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Primary Engine
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W114 280 Engine:
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M130 - 2.8L (2778 cc) SOHC Inline-6
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Performance
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W114 280 Horsepower:
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Approximately 156 hp (SAE Gross) at 5500 rpm (for early models, slightly different for later fuel injection variants).
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W114 280 Torque:
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Approximately 177 lb-ft (240 Nm) at 3500 rpm (for early models).
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Fuel System
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W114 280 Fuel System:
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Dual Solex Zenith 35/40 INAT carburetors (early) or Bosch D-Jetronic fuel injection (later models, e.g., 280E).
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Engine Variant W115
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W115 Engine Options:
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While '280' typically refers to the W114, the W115 chassis could also accommodate engines like the M114 (2.3L Inline-6) or various diesel engines. This manual explicitly covers the '280' model, implying the M130 engine in W114/W115 configurations.
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Maintenance
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Service Intervals
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Oil Change Interval:
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Typically every 5,000-7,500 km (3,000-4,500 miles) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions. Manual will provide exact recommendation.
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Major Tune Up Interval:
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Spark plugs, ignition points (if applicable), fuel filter, air filter typically every 15,000-25,000 km (9,000-15,000 miles).
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Transmission Fluid Service:
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Automatic transmission fluid and filter change usually every 30,000-50,000 km (20,000-30,000 miles).
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Fluid Specifications
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Engine Oil Spec:
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Refer to manual for specific API service classification and viscosity grade (e.g., SAE 10W-40, 20W-50 depending on climate). Likely an oil meeting MB 227.1 or equivalent.
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Coolant Spec:
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Ethylene glycol based coolant, mixed with distilled water at a 50/50 ratio. Refer to manual for specific MB specification (likely a phosphate-free, silicate-free coolant meeting DIN 71700).
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Brake Fluid Spec:
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DOT 3 or DOT 4 glycol-based brake fluid. Manual will specify the exact requirement.
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Known Issues
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Common Wear Items:
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Rubber bushings in suspension and steering, fuel lines, vacuum hoses (prone to perishing), distributor points and condenser (if applicable), radiator hoses.
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Corrosion:
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As with many vehicles of this era, rust can be a concern, particularly in wheel wells, rocker panels, and around window seals.
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Carburetor Issues:
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Zenith carburetors can require periodic adjustment or rebuild due to wear or gumming from fuel degradation.
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