🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: W126 SEL Year: 1988 Generation Generation Code: Second Generation (Facelift) Codes Chassis Code: W126 Body Style Code: SEL (Sonderklasse Lang, Long wheelbase sedan) 👋 Introduction Market Position Target Audience: Mercedes-Benz W126 SEL owners, independent repair shops, automotive enthusiasts Value Proposition: Provides dealership-level technical information for DIY maintenance and repair, saving time and money Competitive Analysis Differentiation: Vehicle-specific, not generic; identical to dealer technician manuals Key Features Convenience: Single, easy-to-use PDF; print-only needed pages; no risk of damage to original manuals Accessibility: Fast download, usable on multiple platforms 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Covered Models: All 1988 Mercedes-Benz W126 SEL models Coverage Scope: A-Z repairs, maintenance, diagnostics, servicing Page Count Estimated Page Count: Comprehensive (exact count not specified, but indicated as exhaustive) Manual Type Type: Factory Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Digital Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Complete engine service, overhaul, diagnostics, tuning Fuel System: Fuel injection system (Bosch KE-Jetronic), fuel pump, injectors, lines, fuel pressure regulation Ignition Charging Starting: Ignition system (distributor, coil, plugs), charging system (alternator, voltage regulator), starting system (starter motor, solenoid) Cooling Exhaust: Cooling system (radiator, thermostat, water pump, hoses, fan), exhaust system components and routing Lube: Lubrication system (oil pump, oil filter, oil passages, capacities) Transmission Auto: 4-speed automatic transmission service, diagnostics, rebuild, fluid specifications Transmission Manual: Not applicable for SEL models, typically automatic Drivetrain: Driveshaft, differential, axles, CV joints Suspension Steering: Front and rear suspension (struts, control arms, bushings), steering system (rack and pinion, power steering pump, linkages) Brakes: Hydraulic brake system, ABS (if equipped), brake pads, rotors, calipers, lines, master cylinder, parking brake Electrical System: Complete electrical system, wiring diagrams, component testing, fuses, relays Climate Control: Air conditioning system service, refrigerant, compressor, climate control unit, ducting Interior Exterior: Bodywork, doors, locks, windows, glass, mirrors, interior trim, seating, instrumentation, lighting Safety Restraints: Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) if applicable, seat belts Procedures Included Maintenance Procedures: Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups Diagnostic Procedures: Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (if applicable) Repair Procedures: Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems Overhaul Procedures: Detailed procedures for engine and transmission overhauls Wiring Schematics: Complete, detailed wiring diagrams for all vehicle electrical systems Technical Depth Depth: Factory level, comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers Illustrations: Extensive diagrams, illustrations, and photographic representations Specifications: Detailed torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, and technical data 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Readability: Searchable text, zoomable images Print Quality Printable: Yes, all pages printable Image Resolution: High, allows for enlarged printing of diagrams Binding Type Binding: Digital (no physical binding) Paper Type Paper Quality Equivalent: High-quality, durable stock (when printed) Compatibility Operating Systems: Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000), macOS Software Requirements: Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip (free) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: V8 (likely M116 or M117 based on SEL designation for this year) Displacement Liters: Likely 4.2L (4196 cc) or 5.0L (4973 cc) for SEL models in 1988 Engine Code Example: M116.960 (4.2L) or M117.967 (5.0L) Performance Horsepower Approx: Approximately 200-230 hp depending on engine variant and market Torque Approx: Approximately 250-270 lb-ft depending on engine variant and market Fuel System Fuel Injection Type: Bosch KE-Jetronic (CIS-K - Continuous Injection System - with electronic control) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed automatic transmission (4G-Tronic) Optional Manual Transmission Option: Not typically available for W126 SEL models. Features Transmission Control: Hydraulic-mechanical control with some electronic influence 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase Mm: 3080 mm (121.3 in) for SEL (Long wheelbase) Length Mm: 5094 mm (200.5 in) for SEL Width Mm: 1798 mm (70.8 in) Height Mm: 1437 mm (56.6 in) Weights Curb Weight Kg: Approximately 1700-1850 kg (depending on engine and equipment) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Federal Safety Standards Compliance: Designed to meet 1988 US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) Active Features Antilock Brakes: Standard on most W126 models, including SEL by 1988 (ABS II) Traction Control: Optional (ASR - Acceleration Slip Regulation) on some models Passive Features Airbags: Driver's airbag became standard on W126 in 1987 Seat Belts: Pre-tensioning front seat belts Body Structure: Reinforced safety cell, energy-absorbing crumple zones 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Original factory stereo system, often with cassette player and optional amplifier Instrument Panel: Comprehensive analog gauges, check control system, trip computer Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard feature on most W126 models Connectivity Multiplex Communication: Limited by modern standards; systems rely on traditional wiring rather than CAN bus, though some multiplexing of signals may exist in specific modules. Other Features Seat Adjustment: Electrically adjustable front seats with memory function common Power Windows Locks: Standard power windows, locks, and mirrors 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 10,000 km (6,200 miles) or annually, per manufacturer recommendations Major Service Interval:...