🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: 560SEL Chassis Code: W126 Model Years Covered: 1986-1991 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Position: The Mercedes-Benz 560SEL (W126) represented the pinnacle of luxury and engineering in the late 1980s and early 1990s, targeting affluent individuals seeking a high-performance, sophisticated, and reliable grand tourer. This manual directly supports the maintenance and repair of these prestigious vehicles. Competitive Analysis Competitive Analysis: Competed against other flagship luxury sedans of the era, such as the BMW 7 Series, Jaguar XJ, and Cadillac Fleetwood. The 560SEL was renowned for its build quality, technological advancements, and smooth V8 power delivery. Key Features Key Features: Exceptional build quality, refined ride comfort, powerful V8 engine, advanced safety features for its time, and luxurious interior appointments. Interior Appointments: High-quality leather upholstery, wood trim accents, power-adjustable seats with memory, automatic climate control, power sunroof, power windows, and ample rear legroom contributing to its 'S-Class' designation (Sonderklasse - Special Class). 📋 Manual Details Coverage Coverage Areas: Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Bodywork, Interior Trim, Climate Control, Seats, Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting Pages Page Count: Extensive (Specific page count not provided, but implied to be comprehensive as per dealer technician usage) Type Manual Type: Factory Workshop Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: HTML/Flash menu with PDF embedded files 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Systems Covered: All major mechanical, electrical, and body systems of the Mercedes-Benz 560SEL W126 Procedures Procedures Included: Routine maintenance, diagnostics, troubleshooting, component repair, component replacement, assembly, disassembly, system adjustments, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), torque specifications Depth Technical Depth: Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete drivetrain and engine rebuilds, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Systems Covered Specific Electrical Systems: Engine control, ignition, lighting, power windows, central locking, SRS airbag system, instrument cluster, climate control, radio, antenna systems. Procedures Included Engine Rebuild Procedures: Detailed procedures for cylinder head removal/installation, piston and connecting rod removal/installation, crankshaft installation, timing chain and sprocket replacement, valve adjustment (if applicable to M117 variant). Transmission Repair Procedures: Overhaul procedures for the 4G-TRONIC transmission, including torque converter replacement, clutch pack replacement, valve body service, and seal replacement. Technical Depth Diagnostic Tools Required: While primarily mechanical, the manual details procedures for accessing and interpreting diagnostic data from the engine control unit (ECU) using specialized Mercedes-Benz diagnostic tools of the era (e.g., Star Diagnosis system if applicable to later W126 models, or basic multimeter testing for earlier systems). 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: HTML with Flash Menu and embedded PDF documents, compatible with Windows (95/98/ME/XP/Vista/Win7), Linux, and MAC operating systems. Searchability: PDF format within the digital package allows for text searching of specific terms, greatly enhancing diagnostic efficiency. Print Quality Print Quality: High quality, suitable for printing individual pages or sections. Binding Type Binding Type: Digital Download (No physical binding) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: M117 V8 Displacement: 5.6 Liters (5549 cc) Bore X Stroke: 94.5 mm x 98.5 mm Compression Ratio: 9.1:1 Performance Horsepower: Approx. 238 hp @ 4750 rpm (US Spec) Torque: Approx. 317 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (US Spec) Fuel System Fuel Injection: Bosch KE-Jetronic (CIS-E with Lambda control) Fuel Type Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline Cooling System Cooling System Type: Pressurized liquid cooling system Engine Management Engine Control Unit: Bosch DME (Digital Motor Electronics) for ignition timing, integrated with CIS-E for fuel management. Lubrication System Oil Capacity: Approx. 8.5 US quarts (8.0 Liters) with filter change (Refer to manual for exact capacity). Engine Features Valve Train: Overhead Camshaft (OHC) per bank, two valves per cylinder. 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-Speed Automatic (4G-TRONIC) Features Transmission Features: Lock-up torque converter, electronic control for shift points and line pressure. Fluid Type Transmission Fluid Specification: MB 236.8 or Dexron III/Mercon (Refer to manual for exact specification for the period) Gear Ratios Transmission Gear Ratios: Specific gear ratios vary by model year and final drive, but typically designed for smooth acceleration and highway cruising. (Detailed ratios available in manual) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 199.9 inches (5078 mm) Width: Approx. 70.5 inches (1791 mm) Height: Approx. 55.7 inches (1415 mm) Wheelbase Wheelbase: Approx. 117.9 inches (3000 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 3900-4100 lbs (1769-1860 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Varies by specification, but generally around 4800-5000 lbs (2177-2268 kg) (Refer to manual for exact GVWR). Interior Interior Volume: Spacious cabin, particularly for rear passengers due to the long wheelbase. 🛡️ Safety Features Passive Features Passive Safety Features: Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones, dual front airbags, anti-lock braking system (ABS), seatbelt pre-tensioners. Active Features Active Safety Features: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), power-assisted steering, advanced suspension for stability. Crash Test Results Crash Test Ratings: While formal crash test ratings like NHTSA's star system were not as prevalent or standardized in the 1980s as they are...