🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: 380 SE Generation: W126 Model Code: W126.032 Years Covered: 1984-1985 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Luxury Sedan Target Audience: Owners of Mercedes-Benz 380 SE (W126) seeking to perform maintenance, repairs, or restoration Competitive Analysis Era Competitors: BMW 7 Series (E23), Jaguar XJ6, Audi V8 Quattro, Cadillac Eldorado Key Features Vehicle Selling Points: Renowned Mercedes-Benz build quality, V8 power, sophisticated ride, and elegant styling Manual Value Proposition: Comprehensive coverage empowering owners to confidently maintain and repair their classic Mercedes-Benz, saving on dealership costs 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Service and Repair Specific Topics: Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Brakes, Electrical, Body, HVAC, Fuel System, Cooling System Page Count Estimated Pages: Likely over 1000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals of this era) Manual Type Type: Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Digital Format: PDF / WINRAR Compatibility Operating Systems: Win95/98/ME/XP/vista/7/8/Linux/MAC, iOS, Android Delivery Method: Instant Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: M116 3.8L V8, including maintenance, diagnostics, and overhaul procedures Fuel System: Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS) fuel injection system, including fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulators, and troubleshooting Cooling System: Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, heater core, and refrigerant charge Ignition System: Spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor, and ignition timing adjustments Transmission: 4-speed automatic transmission (722.3 series), including fluid changes, filter replacement, and general maintenance Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive, driveshaft flexible coupling inspection Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, ball joints, shock absorbers, bushings, and level control systems (if equipped) Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes, brake fluid replacement, pad and rotor inspection, parking brake system, and ABS (if equipped) Steering: Power steering system, fluid level checks, steering play adjustment, and steering column components Electrical System: Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, gauges, warning lamps, and wiring schematics Body And Chassis: Body structure inspection, water leakage, corrosion, panel removal/installation, hinges, locks, and glass HVAC: Heating and ventilation system, AC refrigerant charge, dust filters, and cabin air filters Interior: Seat adjustment, safety belts, sunroof operation, and interior trim components Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine maintenance tasks such as oil and filter changes, fluid level checks, belt inspections, and spark plug replacement Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures for common problems, including detailed symptom analysis and step-by-step fault finding Repair: Detailed instructions for component replacement, overhaul, and adjustment for all major vehicle systems Rebuilding: Comprehensive procedures for engine and transmission rebuilding, including detailed specifications and tolerances Refurbishment Restoration: Guidance on restoring various vehicle components and systems to their original specifications Diagnostics: Diagnostic steps for all major systems, often referencing specific tools or test procedures Technical Depth Level Of Detail: High; covers procedures for both basic maintenance and advanced repairs, suitable for professional technicians Visual Aids: Includes diagrams, illustrations, and wiring schematics to clarify procedures Specifications: Provides detailed technical specifications, torque values, fluid capacities, and diagnostic parameters 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Primary Format: PDF Compression: WINRAR (implying archive for delivery) Print Quality Digital Quality: High resolution, suitable for on-screen viewing and printing Binding Type Digital Navigability: Likely includes a table of contents and potentially hyperlinked sections for easy navigation Paper Type N A: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M116 Configuration: 3.8L (3839 cc) SOHC V8 Bore X Stroke: 86.0 mm x 80.25 mm Compression Ratio: 8.3:1 (typical for US market) Performance Horsepower: 155-160 hp @ 4500 rpm (US market, depending on year and emissions regulations) Torque: 203-210 lb-ft @ 2500-3000 rpm (US market) Fuel System Injection Type: Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS) Continuous Injection System Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline Maintenance Items Valve Adjustment: Hydraulic valve lifters, typically do not require routine adjustment, but clearance checking is outlined. Ignition Timing Spec: Refer to manual for specific base timing and advance curves (e.g., 7.5 degrees BTDC at idle for 1985 380 SE) 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 4-speed Automatic Transmission Transmission Code: 722.3 Optional Type: N/A (Only automatic was offered in the US market for the 380 SE) Features Fluid Type: MB 236.3 Automatic Transmission Fluid (e.g., Pentosin ATF 1, Mobil ATF 220, or equivalent specified) Fluid Capacity Qt: Approximately 8-9 quarts (7.5-8.5 liters) for a fluid and filter change (refer to manual for exact capacity) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length In: 197.0 inches (5004 mm) Width In: 70.5 inches (1791 mm) Height In: 55.7 inches (1415 mm) Weights Curb Weight Lbs: Approximately 3,700 - 3,900 lbs (1680 - 1770 kg) Wheelbase In: 115.9 inches (2944 mm) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Data: Limited official crash test data available for this specific model year from modern agencies. However, the W126 chassis was designed with significant safety considerations for its era. Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was optional and became more common in later production. Passive Features Airbags: Driver's airbag was optional and not standard on all models in these years. Seat Belts: Three-point inertia-reel seat belts for front occupants,...
High resolution, suitable for on-screen viewing and printing
Binding Type
Digital Navigability:
Likely includes a table of contents and potentially hyperlinked sections for easy navigation
Paper Type
N A:
N/A (Digital Format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
M116
Configuration:
3.8L (3839 cc) SOHC V8
Bore X Stroke:
86.0 mm x 80.25 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.3:1 (typical for US market)
Performance
Horsepower:
155-160 hp @ 4500 rpm (US market, depending on year and emissions regulations)
Torque:
203-210 lb-ft @ 2500-3000 rpm (US market)
Fuel System
Injection Type:
Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS) Continuous Injection System
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Maintenance Items
Valve Adjustment:
Hydraulic valve lifters, typically do not require routine adjustment, but clearance checking is outlined.
Ignition Timing Spec:
Refer to manual for specific base timing and advance curves (e.g., 7.5 degrees BTDC at idle for 1985 380 SE)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Transmission Code:
722.3
Optional
Type:
N/A (Only automatic was offered in the US market for the 380 SE)
Features
Fluid Type:
MB 236.3 Automatic Transmission Fluid (e.g., Pentosin ATF 1, Mobil ATF 220, or equivalent specified)
Fluid Capacity Qt:
Approximately 8-9 quarts (7.5-8.5 liters) for a fluid and filter change (refer to manual for exact capacity)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length In:
197.0 inches (5004 mm)
Width In:
70.5 inches (1791 mm)
Height In:
55.7 inches (1415 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Lbs:
Approximately 3,700 - 3,900 lbs (1680 - 1770 kg)
Wheelbase In:
115.9 inches (2944 mm)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Data:
Limited official crash test data available for this specific model year from modern agencies. However, the W126 chassis was designed with significant safety considerations for its era.
Active Features
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was optional and became more common in later production.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver's airbag was optional and not standard on all models in these years.
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts for front occupants, lap belts for rear occupants. Pre-tensioners were optional.
Crumple Zones:
Designed with energy-absorbing crumple zones in the front and rear.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory equipped with AM/FM radio and cassette player. Speakers integrated into door panels and rear deck.
Antenna:
Power antenna mast with automatic retraction/extension.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models, electronically controlled.
Level Control:
Optional hydraulic self-leveling rear suspension (Level Control) or the more advanced ADS (Active Damping System) on some later models, though less common in '84-'85 380 SE.
Connectivity
N A:
No modern connectivity features such as Bluetooth or USB.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval Miles:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 12 months (refer to manual for exact recommended interval based on driving conditions)
Transmission Fluid Interval Miles:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (fluid and filter change highly recommended, though some sources suggest longer intervals; consult manual for specific Mercedes-Benz recommendations for the 722.3)
Coolant Change Interval Miles:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (depending on coolant type)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 recommended (check manual for specific viscosity and MB approval if applicable)
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual, typically high-quality synthetic brake fluid)
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
MB 236.3 or equivalent hydraulic fluid (refer to manual)
Known Issues
Wiring Harness Degradation:
Common issue in older Mercedes-Benz vehicles where insulation on wiring harnesses can become brittle and degrade, leading to electrical faults.
K Jetronic Fuel System:
Can be sensitive to fuel quality and contamination; issues may include rough idle, stalling, or starting problems. Overhaul of fuel distributor or control pressure regulator may be needed.
Automatic Transmission Issues:
The 722.3 transmission is generally robust, but leaks, torque converter issues, or clutch pack wear can occur with age and mileage.
Suspected Leaks:
Common areas for oil and coolant leaks include valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, coolant hoses, and the front timing cover.
Suspension Wear:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings are wear items that can affect steering and ride quality.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Marque Reputation:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, safety, and durability.
Model Evolution
W126 Introduction:
The W126 S-Class was introduced in 1979 as the successor to the W116. It represented a significant advancement in automotive design, safety, and aerodynamics.
380 Se Positioning:
The 380 SE was a popular variant of the W126, offering a potent V8 engine in a luxurious and comfortable executive sedan package.
Production
Production Years W126:
1979-1991
Manufacturing Location:
Germany
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
General Acclaim:
The W126 S-Class chassis consistently received praise from automotive journalists and critics for its comfort, build quality, and engineering, solidifying Mercedes-Benz's reputation in the luxury segment.
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