W126 transmission shift quality. Want to buy: 1988-91 300SEL.
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2006 Mercedes Benz S65 AMG
W126 transmission shift quality. Want to buy: 1988-91 300SEL.
This week I drove a 1991 300SE and then a 1990 300SEL. Both of them had about 100K miles. It seemed to me the transmissions shifted rather harsh, but I have had the impression that is rather normal for a Mercedes. Then today I drove a 1990 420SEL with 134K miles. It shifted noticeably smoother. This makes me think the harder shifting ones were not normal.
Is the hard shifting a known problem? If so, what does it take to resolve the problem?
-Jim
Is the hard shifting a known problem? If so, what does it take to resolve the problem?
-Jim
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Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 41
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From: London
300sel- w109 .1971
Shi
This week I drove a 1991 300SE and then a 1990 300SEL. Both of them had about 100K miles. It seemed to me the transmissions shifted rather harsh, but I have had the impression that is rather normal for a Mercedes. Then today I drove a 1990 420SEL with 134K miles. It shifted noticeably smoother. This makes me think the harder shifting ones were not normal.
Is the hard shifting a known problem? If so, what does it take to resolve the problem?
-Jim
Is the hard shifting a known problem? If so, what does it take to resolve the problem?
-Jim
Check the following items in same order to get a smooth shift.
correct Dexron oil and a/t filter
Transmisson vaccum modulater; leaky most need replacement, minor cost
linkage adjustment at the engine .tightening the adjuster will change the shift points,overtighteniing will result in hard shifts
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From: Phoenix
222 S-65
That transmission predated electronic controls.... all hydraulics with a vacuum modulator that decides when shifts happen.
Six cylinder powered cars will shift more abruptly then V-8 powered cars due to V-8s having more power. There is no power interruption to smooth shifts like in modern boxes.
Six cylinder powered cars will shift more abruptly then V-8 powered cars due to V-8s having more power. There is no power interruption to smooth shifts like in modern boxes.
