🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: 280CE Chassis Code: W123 Coupe Body Style: Coupe (C123) Codes Model Code: C123 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The Mercedes-Benz W123 series, particularly the 280CE coupe, represented the pinnacle of luxury, engineering, and build quality in its segment during the late 1970s and early 1980s. It was positioned as a sophisticated, comfortable, and highly reliable grand tourer for discerning buyers. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Competed with other premium coupes of the era such as the BMW 6 Series (E24), Jaguar XJ-S, and occasionally larger American personal luxury coupes, though often at a higher price point and with a distinct European luxury focus. Key Features Design Philosophy: Emphasized robust engineering, durability, and a timeless, elegant design. The W123 chassis was renowned for its solid construction and exceptional safety features for its time. Coupe Distinctiveness: The 280CE offered a more stylish and sporty alternative to the sedan and wagon variants, featuring frameless door glass and a pillarless hardtop design that allowed for an expansive open-air feel when windows were lowered. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Years Covered: 1976-1985 Page Count Estimated Pages: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Downloadable PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Detailed coverage of the M110 engine (2.8L DOHC Inline-6), including fuel injection (Bosch K-Jetronic), ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, and emission controls. Transmission: Coverage for both the 4-speed automatic (722.1) and 4-speed manual transmissions, including overhaul procedures, adjustments, and fluid specifications. Drivetrain: Detailed information on the rear-wheel drive system, including driveshaft, universal joints, differential, axles, and wheel bearings. Suspension: Comprehensive coverage of front independent suspension (double wishbone) and rear independent suspension (semi-trailing arm), including shock absorbers, springs, control arms, ball joints, and steering linkage. Brakes: Detailed procedures for the hydraulic braking system, including front and rear disc brakes, brake lines, master cylinder, brake booster (and potential vacuum issues), and parking brake. Steering: In-depth coverage of the recirculating ball steering system, including steering box, power steering pump, hydraulic lines, and steering column. Electrical System: Extensive wiring diagrams, troubleshooting guides for lighting, gauges, wipers, horn, power windows, power locks, climate control, and accessory circuits. Climate Control: Coverage of the HVAC system, including blower motor, heater core, evaporator, refrigerant system (R12), and control mechanisms. Body: Information on body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, window regulators, convertible top mechanisms (if applicable to specific trims, though the 280CE is primarily coupe), seals, and trim. Body Interior: Procedures for dashboard removal, seat installation/removal, headliner, and interior trim components. Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments, and lubrication points. Troubleshooting: Systematic diagnostic procedures for common problems, including engine performance issues, starting problems, electrical faults, and braking concerns. Repair: Step-by-step repair instructions for major components, including engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension and steering system repairs, brake system overhauls, and electrical component replacement. Engine Overhaul: Detailed engine disassembly, cleaning, inspection, and reassembly procedures, including piston ring replacement, bearing checks, cylinder head work, and valve adjustments. Fuel System Service: Instructions for fuel pump testing, fuel filter replacement, fuel injector cleaning, and calibration of the K-Jetronic fuel distributor. Cooling System Service: Procedures for radiator replacement, water pump replacement, thermostat testing, coolant flushing, and leak detection. Brake System Service: Instructions for brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper overhaul, brake line bleeding, and master cylinder replacement. Electrical Diagnostics: Guidance on using multimeters and oscilloscopes for diagnosing electrical faults, checking sensor outputs, and tracing wiring issues. Bodywork Repair: Information on rust repair, panel alignment, welding procedures (though detailed body shop techniques may be limited), and sealing. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering everything from basic owner maintenance to in-depth engine and transmission rebuilds. Suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Searchable text for quick access to specific information. Image Quality: High-resolution diagrams, illustrations, and photographs. Print Quality Printable: Printable pages for workshop use. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M110.984 / M110.987 Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated DOHC Inline-6 Displacement: 2746 cc (2.75 Liters) Bore X Stroke: 86.0 mm x 78.7 mm Compression Ratio: 8.0:1 or 8.2:1 (depending on specific market/variant) Performance Horsepower: 180 hp (134 kW) @ 5800 rpm (approx.) Torque: 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) @ 4000 rpm (approx.) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch K-Jetronic Continuous Injection System (CIS) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Octane) Lubrication Oil Capacity: 7.0 Liters (approx. with filter change) 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic (722.1) Optional Optional Transmission: 4-Speed Manual Features Automatic Features: Hydraulic torque converter, selector positions (P, R, N, D, 3, 2). Manual Gear Ratios: Specific ratios vary, but typical final drive ratio around 3.69:1. Transmission Fluid Type: Dexron III...