🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: 300 TE Codes Chassis Code: W124 Engine Code: M103 (likely) 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Segment: Luxury mid-size station wagon (T-Model) Competitive Analysis Competitors: BMW 5 Series Touring (E34), Audi 100 Avant (C3/C4), Volvo 240/740/940 estates Key Features Unique Selling Points: Exceptional build quality, robust engineering, comfortable ride, ample cargo space, sophisticated design, advanced safety features for its era 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage: Full service, repair, maintenance, diagnostics, and restoration Page Count Estimated Page Count: 800-1200 (typical for comprehensive W124 service manuals) Manual Type Type: Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (PDF) or Printed 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine (M103 inline-6 gasoline), fuel injection (KE-Jetronic/Heggs), ignition, cooling, exhaust Transmission: Automatic transmission (4-speed 722.4, possibly 5-speed 722.5 optional), manual transmission (4-speed, 5-speed) Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive, driveshafts, differential, axle shafts Suspension: Front independent suspension (struts, control arms), rear independent suspension (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, sway bars Brakes: Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake fluid specifications Steering: Power-assisted steering system, steering gear, steering column Electrical: 12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams Bodywork: Body and chassis, exterior trim, doors, windows, sunroof, interior trim, body repair HVAC: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, climate control Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (if applicable) Repair: Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake system overhauls, suspension component replacement, electrical system repairs Rebuilding: Detailed procedures for rebuilding major components like engines and transmissions Restoration: Guidance on bodywork restoration, component refurbishment, and system overhauls for classic car preservation Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed torque specifications and clearances 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Quality: High-resolution scans with searchable text (if OCR processed) Print Quality Print Quality: Professionally printed on durable paper suitable for workshop environments Binding Type Binding: Staple-bound, perfect-bound, or spiral-bound for lay-flat usability Paper Type Paper Type: Glossy or matte, heavy-weight paper to withstand grease and handling ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: 3.0L SOHC Inline-6 (M103.980/M103.983) Displacement: 2960 cc (3.0 Liters) Bore X Stroke: 88.5 mm x 80.25 mm Compression Ratio: 9.2:1 (typical) Valvetrain: Single Overhead Camshaft (SOHC), 2 valves per cylinder Performance Horsepower: 188 hp (140 kW) @ 5700 rpm (approx.) Torque: 205 lb-ft (278 Nm) @ 4400 rpm (approx.) Fuel System Fuel Injection: Bosch KE-Jetronic or HEGGS (Hot-Wire Electronic Fuel Injection) with Lambda control Fuel Type: Unleaded premium gasoline (91-93 octane recommended) Engine Oil Oil Capacity: 7.0 Liters (7.4 US quarts) with filter Recommended Oil Viscosity: 10W-40 or 15W-40 (depending on climate, refer to manual for precise recommendations) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed Automatic (722.4) Optional Transmission Type: 5-speed Automatic (722.5), 4-speed or 5-speed Manual Features Transmission Fluid Type: MB 236.1 or 236.2 Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) Transmission Fluid Capacity Automatic Capacity: Approximately 8.0 Liters (8.5 US quarts) for a full drain and refill (check manual for exact capacity and procedure) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 4740 mm (186.6 in) Width: 1740 mm (68.5 in) Height: 1480 mm (58.3 in) Wheelbase: 2800 mm (110.2 in) Cargo Cargo Volume: Approx. 510-1500 liters (18-53 cu ft) with rear seats folded Weights Curb Weight: 1580-1650 kg (3483-3638 lbs) depending on configuration 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Safety Compliance: Designed to meet rigorous safety standards of the late 1980s and early 1990s Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Traction Control: Optional ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation) on later models or specific configurations Passive Features Airbags: Driver airbag standard on later models within this range; passenger airbag optional Seat Belts: Pyrotechnically tensioned front seat belts, rear seat belts Body Construction: Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones front and rear 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory-equipped AM/FM cassette stereo with optional CD changer integration. Climate Control: Optional automatic climate control (Thermotronic) available on higher trims. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard cruise control system. Headlights: Halogen headlights, with optional Xenon HID headlights on some later models or specialized trims. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change: Every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months (whichever comes first), verify with manual for specific conditions. Major Service: Typically around 30,000-50,000 miles, involving spark plugs, transmission fluid, differential fluid, coolant, and brake fluid. Fluid Specifications Coolant Type: Mercedes-Benz Approved Coolant (e.g., G48 or equivalent silicate-free antifreeze) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid Power Steering Fluid: MB 236.3 or equivalent power steering fluid Known Issues Wiring Harness: Degradation of the engine wiring harness insulation ("chrysanthemum" pattern) can lead to misfires and electrical faults. Head Gasket: Potential for head gasket leaks, especially with high mileage or overheating. Cooling System: Plastic components in the cooling system (e.g., expansion tank, thermostat housing)...