🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: W123 280SE Production Years: 1976-1985 Codes Chassis Code: W123 Engine Code: M110 (for 280SE) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Mid-size luxury sedan and coupe Target Audience: Affluent buyers seeking comfort, safety, and engineering excellence. Competitive Analysis Competitors: BMW 5 Series (E12/E28), Audi 100, Volvo 240/260 series, Jaguar XJ. Key Features Design Philosophy: Robust build quality, exceptional durability, advanced engineering for its era, focus on passive safety. Reputation: Known for its legendary longevity, build quality, and ability to rack up high mileage with proper maintenance. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Covered Models: Mercedes-Benz W123 280SE Covered Years: 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985 Page Count Total Pages: 559 Manual Type Type: Workshop Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Comprehensive engine repair, overhaul, tuning, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, ignition system Transmission: Repair and overhaul procedures for automatic and manual transmissions Electrical: Detailed electrical system diagrams, troubleshooting, repair of lighting, ignition, starting, charging, and accessories Bodywork: Body repair, panel replacement, interior trim, glass, doors, and windows Chassis: Suspension, steering, brakes, wheels, and tires Fuel System: Fuel injection system (Bosch K-Jetronic for 280SE), fuel pump, lines, filter, and tank Ignition: Ignition system components, timing, spark plugs, ignition coil, distributor Exhaust: Exhaust system components, catalytic converter (if applicable for later models), mufflers, pipes Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine maintenance, tune-ups, fluid changes, filter replacements, belt adjustments Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures for common problems, fault finding, symptom analysis Repair: Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle components and systems Overhaul: Complete overhaul procedures for engine, transmission, and other major assemblies Disassembly Assembly: Detailed instructions for component removal and installation Technical Depth Depth: Professional level, suitable for experienced technicians but accessible to knowledgeable DIYers. Emphasizes special aspects of Mercedes-Benz products. Special Tools: Identification and use of specialized Mercedes-Benz tools required for specific adjustments and repairs. Warnings Cautions: Highlights safety warnings, cautions, and important notes with specific symbols. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Searchability: Assumed searchable due to PDF format, facilitating quick access to information. Print Quality Printability: Yes, printable, allowing for hard copy reference. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital PDF) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Inline-6, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) Displacement: 2.8 Liters (2799 cc) Bore X Stroke: 86.0 mm x 80.25 mm Compression Ratio: 8.0:1 (typical) Performance Horsepower: Approx. 185 PS (182 bhp / 136 kW) at 5800 rpm (DIN) Torque: Approx. 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) at 4250 rpm (DIN) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch K-Jetronic Mechanical Fuel Injection Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (Premium) Engine Management Ignition System: Electronic Ignition with Distributor 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed Manual (initially), 4-speed Automatic (common option) Optional Transmission Type: Optional 5-speed Manual, 4-speed Automatic (later replaced by 4-speed automatic) Features Automatic Features: Torque converter lock-up (on some later models), hydraulic control. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 4725 mm (186.0 in) for Sedan Width: Approx. 1785 mm (70.3 in) Height: Approx. 1435 mm (56.5 in) for Sedan Wheelbase: Approx. 2795 mm (110.0 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1450 kg (3197 lbs) for Sedan Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approx. 1950 kg (4299 lbs) Towing Capacity: Varies by market and specific vehicle configuration, generally not emphasized. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Performance: Excellent for its era due to robust chassis design and safety features. No standardized ratings like modern NCAP. Active Features Brakes: Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs. Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) on later models. Steering: Power-assisted recirculating ball steering. Passive Features Body Structure: Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones, impact-absorbing steering column. Airbags: Not available during the primary production run. Introduced on later Mercedes models. Seatbelts: 3-point inertia-reel seatbelts in the front, lap belts in the rear (later models may have 3-point rear belts). 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Original factory AM/FM radio, often with cassette player on later models. Basic speaker system. Navigation: Not available. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Optional on some models. Climate Control: Manual air conditioning was common. Automatic climate control (Thermotronic) available on some higher trims/later models. Connectivity Connectivity Features: N/A. Vehicle primarily focused on mechanical engineering and driver experience. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Filter Replacement Interval: Oil filter with every oil change. Air and fuel filters typically every 20,000-30,000 km (12,000-18,000 miles). Tune Up Interval: Spark plugs typically every 30,000-40,000 km (18,000-25,000 miles). Ignition timing and fuel mixture checks should be done periodically. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3 rated, viscosity 10W-40 or 15W-40 recommended (check manual for precise specs). Coolant: Glysantin G05 or equivalent (ethylene glycol based) with corrosion inhibitors. 50/50 mix with distilled water. Transmission Fluid: Automatic: MB-Approval...