Strange Observation from 430 to 55AMG
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 335
Likes: 3
From: Lodi, CA
2001 CLK55 AMG
Strange Observation from 430 to 55AMG
So, Ive posted that I traded in my 430 for a 55AMG, both W208's. I've noticed two things, ok more than two but to strange differences. My 430 had a tighter turning ratio, I used to be able to hook a u-ey in the middle of a street without going over a curb or doing a 3 point, the turning radius in the 430 was fantastic... The 55AMG, doesn't, it has a wider turning radius... both the same size wheels, same size tires... I know it's not a tire issue as I ran two different brands on the 430, fuzion, which were crap, then goodyears, which were fantastic, but the radius was the same, only difference was noise and ride. The 55 has some cheap tires I assume the dealer popped on, but still, shouldn't make the difference I see. The second, is that, I know the 55 has a more robust tranny that has more aggressive programming, as sometimes it will chirp the tires going into second gear, but, when I go from park to drive or reverse, or reverse to drive, it takes a longer time to engage, and there is a little stronger feeling engaging... I seriously doubt it's a problem, and I think the mounts are ok as it's smooth as silk in drive at a stop, and there is no thud at any time... I think these are just AMG issues being that the car is much more powerful than the 430. I LOVE the car, and I don't think anything is wrong, I just think these are characteristics of the vehicle.... Does anyone have the same issues? I just took the car on a little road trip and it was fantastic... I do miss the softer ride of the 430 on Interstate 580 through Oakland to the bay bridge as that road is quite bumpy, but it's worth the power and handling of the 55AMG.... It's a very special vehicle!
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Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 171
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From: Finland
'14 E500 Coupe
I have notices somehow same kind of feelings between those two transmissions. Very good friend of mine has a '00 CLK 430 and I have a '00 CLK55. What I have driven 430 I have to say that it changes the gears more quickly and firmer. And sometimes when I drive steady speed like 85kmh (53mph) and suddenly hit the pedal into firewall, like passing aggressivily couple of slower cars, transmisson changes 5th into 3rd and the change is somehow slow. Not that slow that I could say there is a problem. Other than that it is working fine.
Yes I have checked oli level and it's good. No I haven't done reset. And I have a quite a big tranny-oilcooler in front.
Yes I have checked oli level and it's good. No I haven't done reset. And I have a quite a big tranny-oilcooler in front.
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 335
Likes: 3
From: Lodi, CA
2001 CLK55 AMG
Good to know it's not just me.. Thank you for the reply! Sounds like it's just a characteristic of the 55AMG.
I have notices somehow same kind of feelings between those two transmissions. Very good friend of mine has a '00 CLK 430 and I have a '00 CLK55. What I have driven 430 I have to say that it changes the gears more quickly and firmer. And sometimes when I drive steady speed like 85kmh (53mph) and suddenly hit the pedal into firewall, like passing aggressivily couple of slower cars, transmisson changes 5th into 3rd and the change is somehow slow. Not that slow that I could say there is a problem. Other than that it is working fine.
Yes I have checked oli level and it's good. No I haven't done reset. And I have a quite a big tranny-oilcooler in front.
Yes I have checked oli level and it's good. No I haven't done reset. And I have a quite a big tranny-oilcooler in front.
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Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 1,427
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From: Florida
2002 CLK 55 AMG cabriolet Eurocharged
I never owned a 430 but I will add the transmission is really strong, but when it is time for business it really drops the ball.
I want to remove my winter file completely and build a file that will flat out race on demand.
Some of our sponsors offer trans tuning but you have to get some info from the customers of the tune.
The 55 might have a different steering gear ratio but other problems happen to the suspension as well affecting steering axis inclination like ball joints, and bent steering parts or control arm.
I am sagging in the front now and ball joints are on the suspect list. A daily driver will always need some TLC maintenance.
Gator
I want to remove my winter file completely and build a file that will flat out race on demand.
Some of our sponsors offer trans tuning but you have to get some info from the customers of the tune.
The 55 might have a different steering gear ratio but other problems happen to the suspension as well affecting steering axis inclination like ball joints, and bent steering parts or control arm.
I am sagging in the front now and ball joints are on the suspect list. A daily driver will always need some TLC maintenance.
Gator
