This comprehensive factory service repair manual is your ultimate guide to maintaining and repairing your Mercedes Benz W116 300 SD, covering models from 1978 to 1980. This official manual, not a third-party publication, provides detailed insights into every aspect of your vehicle's operation. It offers clear and concise instructions, enabling you to confidently perform a wide range of tasks, from routine maintenance to complex repairs, empowering you to become your own mechanic. The manual is meticulously organized, covering everything from general maintenance procedures and troubleshooting tips to in-depth information on engine, transmission, brake, electrical, suspension, cooling, fuel injection, emission, heater and air conditioning systems. You'll find detailed wiring diagrams to assist with electrical repairs, precise periodic lubrication schedules, and a comprehensive guide to steering and differential/drive systems. Additionally, the manual includes sections on chassis/body, restraint systems, interior components, and axle maintenance. With hundreds of pages packed with step-by-step instructions, illustrations, diagrams, and specifications, this manual provides the same level of information that professional technicians rely on. You'll find detailed substeps expanding on repair procedure information, notes, cautions, and warnings throughout each chapter to ensure a safe and effective repair process. Numbered instructions guide you through every step, while bold figure numbers help you quickly match illustrations with instructions. Enlarged insets aid in identifying and examining parts in detail. A numbered table of contents makes navigating the manual a breeze, allowing you to quickly find the information you need.

The Mercedes-Benz W116 300 SD, produced from 1978 to 1980, stands as a testament to the German automaker's engineering prowess and enduring reputation for luxury and refinement. This model, a diesel-powered sedan, represented a significant departure for Mercedes-Benz, as it aimed to introduce the advantages of diesel technology to its prestigious lineup. Under the hood resided a 3.0-liter five-cylinder OM617 engine, renowned for its robust construction and impressive fuel economy. The 300 SD offered a unique blend of performance and efficiency, capable of achieving a respectable top speed while sipping fuel with remarkable thriftiness. The exterior of the W116 300 SD showcased a timeless design, characterized by its elegant proportions, flowing lines, and iconic grille. The interior reflected the epitome of luxury, with sumptuous leather upholstery, plush carpeting, and a wealth of amenities. The 300 SD was a true symbol of refinement and status, attracting discerning drivers who valued a combination of performance, economy, and understated elegance. However, the model's success was not without its challenges. The diesel engine, while economical, could be noisy and prone to emissions issues, particularly in early models. The W116 300 SD's complex mechanicals also required specialized knowledge for maintenance and repair. Despite these challenges, the 300 SD left an enduring legacy, paving the way for the subsequent adoption of diesel engines in Mercedes-Benz vehicles and establishing the brand's reputation in the burgeoning market for fuel-efficient luxury automobiles.