🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: 380 SEL Model Generation: W126 (Second Generation S-Class) Model Code: W126.034 Generation Generation Years: 1979-1991 (W126) Specific Model Years Covered: 1981, 1982, 1983 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Class: Full-size Luxury Sedan Target Audience For Manual: Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, and Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors Era: BMW 7 Series (E23), Jaguar XJ (XJ40), Cadillac Sedan de Ville. Key Features Manual Value Proposition: Provides detailed, authoritative information for accurate troubleshooting and repair, crucial for maintaining the complexity and luxury of a Mercedes-Benz vehicle. Vehicle Key Features Era: Advanced engineering for its time, focus on comfort, safety, and performance, sophisticated suspension and powertrain. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Coverage Scope: Comprehensive service and repair for Mercedes-Benz 380 SEL models from 1981-1983. Page Count Estimated Page Count: Likely over 1000 pages, typical for a full factory service manual set. Manual Type Manual Type: Factory Service Repair Manual (FSM) Language Language: English Format Delivery Format: Digital (PDF / WINRAR), Instant Download Compatibility Operating Systems Compatibility: Win95/98/ME/XP/vista/7/8/Linux/MAC, iOS, Android. 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Systems: Engine oil and filter change, valve clearance adjustment/checking, idle speed adjustment, injection timing check/adjustment, fuel filter replacement, air filter maintenance, V-belt inspection, intake/exhaust manifold seating, oxygen sensor replacement, spark plug service, cooling system, engine mounts. Transmission Systems: Manual transmission oil change and level check, automatic transmission fluid and filter change, automatic transmission fluid level check, transfer case fluid change and level check (if applicable to specific configurations), clutch system fluid level check and inspection. Suspension Steering Brakes: Suspension and body structure inspection, self-leveling suspension inspection, level control (ADS, ASD, 4MATIC) fluid level, front axle oil level, ball joint inspection, rear axle oil change and level check, wheel bolt tightening, drive shaft flexible coupling inspection, brake fluid level check, brake line inspection, brake pad and disk thickness inspection, brake disk cleaning, parking brake cable adjustment, brake fluid replacement, power steering fluid level, steering play check, steering bolt retightening. Electrical Lighting Body: Battery fluid level check, warning/indicator lamp check, water drain cleaning, engine compartment lower panel removal/installation, door hinge/lock lubrication, hydraulic top fluid level check, sunroof rail cleaning/greasing, soft top locking tab check, windshield washer fluid level check, antenna mast cleaning, headlamp/exterior lamp inspection, wiper/washer system inspection, windshield wiper blade replacement, AC refrigerant charge check, heating/ventilation dust filter replacement, active charcoal filter replacement, recirculating air filter replacement, folding side mirror lubrication, hood lubrication, safety belt inspection, backrest lock operation check, noise encapsulation panel removal/installation, body paint damage inspection. Procedures Included Maintenance Procedures: Regular scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, transmission, brake, power steering, washer), filter replacements (oil, fuel, air, dust, charcoal), belt inspections, spark plug replacement, battery maintenance. Repair Procedures: Detailed step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, inspection, rebuilding, and assembly. Troubleshooting guides for diagnosing vehicle problems. Troubleshooting Guides: Systematic approach to diagnosing and resolving common and uncommon vehicle faults. Technical Depth Diagnostic Capabilities: Intermediate to advanced. Covers troubleshooting and diagnosis for mechanical, electrical, fuel injection, and chassis systems. Repair Complexity: Suitable for DIY mechanics with moderate to advanced mechanical skills and access to specialized tools. Also targets professional technicians. Diagrams And Illustrations: Expected to include detailed technical drawings, exploded views, and schematics for complex systems. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital File Format: PDF, WINRAR (for potential archive or additional files). Print Quality Digital Quality: Assumed high quality for clear diagrams, text, and images, typical of factory manuals. Binding Type Digital Binding: N/A (digital format) Paper Type Digital Paper Type: N/A (digital format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: V8, SOHC (Single Overhead Cam) Engine Code Typical: M116 (3.8L) Performance Displacement: 3.8 Liters (3839 cc) Horsepower Estimated: Approx. 155-160 hp @ 4750 rpm (US Spec) Torque Estimated: Approx. 195-205 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm (US Spec) Fuel System Fuel Injection System: Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS - Continuous Injection System) Fuel Type Recommended: Unleaded gasoline, Octane rating 91 or higher recommended. Air Filtration: Metal-reinforced air filter element (cleaning and replacement covered). Maintenance Related Valve Adjustment Type: Mechanical tappets, requiring periodic adjustment. 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed Automatic (typically) Optional Optional Transmission: Rarely, a 5-speed manual was available on some export models, but the 380 SEL was predominantly automatic in major markets. Features Automatic Transmission Model: Mercedes-Benz 4G-Tronic (722.3 series) Fluid Specifications Automatic Transmission Fluid Type: Dexron III / Mercon (or MB spec equivalent, e.g., MB 236.1) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Style: 4-door Sedan (Long Wheelbase) Wheelbase Mm: 3080 mm (121.3 in) Weights Curb Weight Kg Approx: 1750-1850 kg (3858-4078 lbs) 🛡️ Safety Features Passive Features Seat Belts: Standard front and rear seat belts, potentially with pre-tensioners for front occupants. Airbags: Driver's airbag became optional or standard on later W126 models, but may not have been standard in 1981-1983 on all trims. Crumple Zones: Designed...