🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: 280 Chassis Series: W114 & W115 Years Covered: 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976 Codes Chassis Code W114: W114 (often referred to as the 'Stroke 8' or 'New Generation' compact executive sedan) Chassis Code W115: W115 (shared chassis design with W114, typically with simpler engine options) 👋 Introduction Market Position Era Positioning: The Mercedes-Benz W114/W115 series represented Mercedes-Benz's entry into a more compact executive sedan market, balancing luxury, engineering quality, and a more accessible price point compared to larger S-Class models. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Competed with vehicles like BMW 3.0 CS, Alfa Romeo Alfetta, Jaguar XJ6 (though larger), and high-end offerings from American manufacturers depending on market. Key Features Engineering Focus: Robust engineering, advanced (for the time) suspension, comfortable ride, build quality. Target Audience: Professionals, families seeking a reliable and prestigious European sedan. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Main Coverage: Complete Service and Repair Procedures Scope: All Models, Engines, Trim Levels, and Transmission Types within the specified W114/W115 series years. Page Count Estimated Pages: Approximately 600-900 pages (typical for comprehensive Mercedes-Benz workshop manuals of this era, exact count not specified in product info but implied by 'complete'). Manual Type Type: Workshop Service Repair Manual Language Language: English (based on product description language) Format Digital Format: Downloadable PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine (maintenance, overhaul, tuning), Fuel System (carburetor/injection), Cooling System, Exhaust System. Drivetrain: Transmission (manual and automatic), Clutch, Driveshafts, Differentials, Axles. Suspension Steering: Front and Rear Suspension (independent/semi-independent), Shock Absorbers, Springs, Steering System (power steering components). Brakes: Brake System (hydraulic, disc/drum configurations), Parking Brake, Fluid Maintenance. Electrical: Electrical System, Battery, Charging System (alternator), Ignition System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Starter Motor, Wiring Diagrams. Body Chassis: Bodywork Repair, Doors, Windows, Upholstery, Chassis Lubrication, Structural Components. Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine Maintenance Checks, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication Schedules, Tune-ups. Repair Overhaul: Engine Rebuilding, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repairs, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair. Diagnostics: Troubleshooting Guides for common problems, Diagnostic procedures for various systems. Adjustments: Carburetor Adjustment, Ignition Timing, Valve Clearance, Brake Adjustment. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed specifications and diagnostic steps. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF (Portable Document Format) Searchability: Likely text-searchable if a good quality scan/OCR was performed on the original document. Print Quality Printability: High quality, allowing printing of individual pages, chapters, or the entire manual. Binding Type Digital Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Digital Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine W114 280 Engine: M130 - 2.8L (2778 cc) SOHC Inline-6 Performance W114 280 Horsepower: Approximately 156 hp (SAE Gross) at 5500 rpm (for early models, slightly different for later fuel injection variants). W114 280 Torque: Approximately 177 lb-ft (240 Nm) at 3500 rpm (for early models). Fuel System W114 280 Fuel System: Dual Solex Zenith 35/40 INAT carburetors (early) or Bosch D-Jetronic fuel injection (later models, e.g., 280E). Engine Variant W115 W115 Engine Options: While '280' typically refers to the W114, the W115 chassis could also accommodate engines like the M114 (2.3L Inline-6) or various diesel engines. This manual explicitly covers the '280' model, implying the M130 engine in W114/W115 configurations. 🔧 Transmission Standard W114 280 Transmission: 4-speed Manual Transmission Optional W114 280 Optional Transmission: Optional 4-speed or 3-speed Automatic Transmission (often the 'Hydrak' system or later torque converter automatics like the 722.1). Features Automatic Transmission Features: Smooth shifting, robust design typical of Mercedes-Benz engineering. Fluid Type Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec: Refer to manual for specific MB fluid specification (likely Dexron II or equivalent for period automatics). 📐 Dimensions Exterior W114 Wheelbase: Approximately 2710 mm (106.7 inches) W114 Length: Approximately 4680 mm (184.3 inches) W115 Wheelbase: Approximately 2710 mm (106.7 inches) - identical to W114 W115 Length: Approximately 4680 mm (184.3 inches) - identical to W114 Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 1450-1550 kg (3197-3417 lbs) depending on engine and equipment. Gross Vehicle Weight: Refer to specific model plate in manual. Tire Size Standard Tire Size: Typically 185 HR 14 or 195/70 R14. Exact specification in manual. Wheel Bolt Pattern Bolt Pattern: 5x112 mm 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Safety Era: Designed to meet safety standards of the 1970s. Emphasized passive safety with a strong chassis and safety cell structure. Modern crash test ratings are not applicable. Active Features Braking System: Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes. Power assisted. Passive Features Body Structure: Reinforced passenger compartment, collapsible steering column, safety glass. Seatbelts: Standard seatbelts, likely lap belts in the rear, 3-point belts in the front. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Radio: Typically analog radio receivers, often with AM/FM bands. Optional cassette players might have been available on later models. Speakers: Limited speaker count, often two in the front doors or dashboard. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Optional on some models, a fairly advanced feature for the mid-1970s....