🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: 280 E Year: 1981 Codes Chassis Code: W123 Series (specifically E-Class variant) Generation Generation: Second Generation W123 (1976-1985) 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: Premium mid-size sedan known for build quality, comfort, and engineering. Competed with BMW 5 Series, Audi 100/200, and Volvo 200 Series. Key Features Design Philosophy: Robust engineering, long-term durability, refined driving experience, understated luxury. Distinguishing Features: Solid build quality, exceptional ride comfort, advanced safety features for its era, reputation for longevity. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Comprehensive factory service and repair Secondary Coverage: Maintenance, diagnostics, troubleshooting, component replacement Page Count Estimated Page Count: Likely over 1000 pages (typical for a full factory manual of this era) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital Download (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine overhaul, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing system, oil pump, oil cooler, lubrication system Engine Fuel System: Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection system, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, pressure regulator, fuel lines Engine Cooling System: Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, fan, heater core, coolant specifications Engine Ignition System: Spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor, spark plug wires, timing adjustments Transmission Manual: Clutch system, manual gearbox overhaul, gear linkage, transmission fluid specifications Transmission Automatic: Automatic transmission overhaul, fluid and filter change, torque converter, transmission control, fluid specifications Suspension Front: Independent front suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, ball joints, steering knuckles, alignment specifications Brakes: Hydraulic system, brake calipers, brake pads, brake discs, master cylinder, brake fluid specifications, parking brake, ABS (if equipped) Steering: Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, tie rods, power steering fluid specifications Electrical System: Battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams, lighting system, fuses, relays, ignition switch, instrument cluster Body And Chassis: Body structure inspection, corrosion prevention, chassis lubrication, door hinges, locks, sunroof, soft top mechanisms, trim removal Climate Control: Heating system, ventilation, air conditioning system, refrigerant charge, cabin air filters, blower motor Suspension Rear Suspension Rear: Independent rear suspension, semi-trailing arms, shock absorbers, springs, differential, axle shafts, alignment specifications Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks, belt inspection and adjustment, lubrication Engine Repair: Valve adjustment, injection timing adjustment, engine mount tightening, component inspection and replacement Transmission Service: Clutch disk inspection, manual transmission oil change and level check, automatic transmission fluid and filter change, transfer case service Suspension And Steering Repair: Ball joint inspection, suspension component replacement, steering play adjustment, wheel bolt tightening Brake Service: Brake fluid replacement, brake pad and disc inspection, parking brake adjustment, brake system testing Electrical Diagnostics: Troubleshooting electrical faults, component testing, wiring diagram interpretation Bodywork And Trim: Door hinge lubrication, lock lubrication, sunroof rail maintenance, soft top operation checks, windshield wiper blade replacement Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full overhaul and diagnostics) 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Searchability: Completely searchable text Print Quality Printability: All pages printable Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) File Source File Source: Original Factory Files (not scans) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Inline-6 Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated Engine Code: M110.984 (likely) Displacement: 2.8 Liters (2746 cc) Performance Horsepower: Approximately 140-155 hp (net) depending on specific market and emission controls Torque: Approximately 210-220 Nm (155-162 lb-ft) at 3000-4500 RPM Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS) Continuous Injection System Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane or higher recommended) Engine Mechanical Valvetrain: Single Overhead Camshaft (SOHC), 2 valves per cylinder 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 4-Speed Manual Transmission Optional Type: 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., 4G-Tronic) Features Clutch: Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 4725 mm (186.0 in) Width: Approx. 1790 mm (70.5 in) Height: Approx. 1430 mm (56.3 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1450-1550 kg (3197-3417 lbs) depending on transmission and options 🛡️ Safety Features Passive Features Seatbelts: Standard front seatbelts, optional rear seatbelts Body Structure: Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones Steering Column: Collapsible steering column 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory fitted Becker AM/FM radio with cassette player (optional) Driver Assistance ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) became optional and increasingly available on higher trims and later models in the W123 range. Connectivity Antennae: Power operated antenna mast 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 5,000-10,000 miles or annually, consult manual for exact specification Tune Up Interval: Spark plugs and ignition system checks typically every 20,000-30,000 miles Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: API SG or higher, viscosity 10W-40 or 15W-40 recommended (check manual for specific ambient temperature recommendations) Coolant: Proprietary Mercedes-Benz coolant or equivalent (e.g., Zerex G-05), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water Brake Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid Power Steering Fluid: ATF Dexron II or III, or specific...