A good manual is the most useful tool you can buy for an R107. It gives the procedures, specifications and wiring diagrams that turn guesses into repairs. Here is what is available.
Factory manuals
Mercedes-Benz published several types of service literature for the R107 era:
- Service manuals for the chassis and body, and separate manuals for engines by type (M110, M116, M117, M103).
- Electrical troubleshooting manuals with wiring diagrams by year.
- Fuel injection manuals for K-Jetronic and KE-Jetronic.
- Climate control manuals.
- Technical data books with specifications and torque figures.
Original factory manuals are found used through enthusiast forums, auction sites and specialist sellers. Some are reprinted. Make sure the manual covers your model and year.
Digital sources
- Mercedes-Benz official documentation: Mercedes has offered workshop information for classic models through its official channels and the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center; check current availability.
- Enthusiast sites and forums share scanned procedures and diagrams. Use them as a supplement, and be aware of copyright.
- Parts catalog viewers let you look up part numbers and exploded diagrams by VIN.
Haynes and other aftermarket manuals
Haynes and similar publishers produced manuals covering R107 models, often grouped with other Mercedes models of the era. They are simpler than factory manuals and good for basic maintenance, but less detailed for fuel injection and electrical work.
You can find factory manual reprints and aftermarket manuals here: R107 service manuals on Amazon.
Owner’s manuals
The owner’s manual explains controls, fluids, tire pressures and maintenance schedules for your year. Originals and reprints are available. Many buyers like to see the original owner’s manual and service booklet with a car; see selling an R107.
Parts catalogs
The Mercedes parts catalog (EPC) shows exploded diagrams and part numbers. Specialist suppliers also have online catalogs by model and year. Using correct part numbers prevents wrong orders. See where to buy parts.
What I would buy first
- The factory service manual set for your engine and chassis, or the best reprint available.
- The electrical troubleshooting manual for your year.
- The owner’s manual for your year.
- A K or KE-Jetronic manual if you work on the injection.
Quick answers
- Is Haynes enough? For basic work, yes. For injection and electrics, use factory manuals.
- Are scanned manuals legal? Check the source; prefer official or purchased copies.
- Do manuals cover all years? Factory manuals often cover ranges with supplements; check coverage.
- Where are wiring diagrams? In the electrical troubleshooting manual. See electrical troubleshooting.
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