On September 5, 2026, WALLNER Classic once again focused on the technology behind Mercedes-Benz classics. At our annual classic car technical workshop, interested classic car enthusiasts had the opportunity to spend a morning delving deep into the world of engines, drivetrains, and automotive technology.
After a brief get-together in our showroom, we headed straight to the workshop. There, various Mercedes-Benz classics and a wealth of technical knowledge awaited our participants.
A special highlight of this year’s program was the presentation of our new air conditioning system made by WALLNER Classic. Retrofitting modern air conditioning is an exciting challenge, especially for historic vehicles: it’s designed to enhance the comfort of a classic car without losing sight of the vehicle’s character.
Next, we turned our attention to the heart of every car: the engine. We explained how different engine designs work and traced the path of power from the engine through the clutch to the entire drivetrain.
We got down to the specifics: How does a crankshaft work? What is the role of the camshaft? How do the valves open and close? And how do all these components work together so that combustion in the engine ultimately generates motion?
Engine lubrication was also examined in detail. After all, oil is much more than just a fluid that needs to be changed regularly. Participants learned about the roles lubricants play in a vehicle and why proper maintenance is crucial to an engine’s service life.
Concrete examples from our daily workshop routine demonstrated just how important this is in practice. Using various cases of engine damage in four- and six-cylinder engines, we clearly explained how damage can occur and the technical factors behind it.
Another focus was on the braking system. The design and operation of drum and disc brakes were compared.
The discussion covered not only the differences between the two systems but also the technical considerations specific to classic vehicles.
Of course, a look at the fuel systems of classic Mercedes-Benz vehicles was a must. Participants explored carburetors and fuel injection pumps and gained insight into the various technical solutions used to supply engines in past decades.
It is precisely these components that make the technology of historic vehicles so fascinating: Many solutions still function reliably even after decades—provided they are properly understood, maintained, and repaired.
The session concluded with a question of particular interest to many classic car owners: What does an engine overhaul at WALLNER Classic actually entail?
From the initial diagnosis through the disassembly and inspection of individual components to the reconditioning and subsequent reassembly, the presentation explained the steps necessary to transform an engine in need of overhaul back into a reliable power unit.
It became clear that experience, technical understanding, and a close examination of every single component are crucial.
Our technical workshop thrives not only on the topics themselves but, above all, on the shared exchange of ideas. Asking questions, handling components, understanding technical relationships directly on the vehicle, and gaining experience.
We’d like to thank all participants for their keen interest, the many questions, and the engaging discussion.
And, of course, we’re already looking forward to the next workshops at WALLNER Classic.
After all, if you really want to understand a classic car, sometimes you just have to take a look under the hood.
