When I was considering a 86' 560SEL, I discovered that the transmission needed rebuilt. I got several quotes here locally and all were around $1500-$1700, but I am sure in California, it would be more expensive?
@ 68K miles, can you tell me what happened that caused the shocks (struts) and springs to be replaced? These should have lasted many more miles. If it has set for a long time, I can understand why new brakes were in order, but not shocks (or struts - whatever they have). and springs. Well, springs- maybe, because I have seen some of these cars sag. Also- where the original wheels damaged?
Since he hardly drove it- I am wondering. Have you already tried changing the transmission fluid and filter? I would try this first, if you have not already. This should be done anyway.
I am not too sure about these cars, but as C32 mentioned this car should start out in 2nd? I know that some did, and this may be no exception. Perhaps it is 3rd that you are missing?
I am sure someone with more insight will key in here shortly.
With 68K, 1-owner, garage kept miles- I bet this is one beautiful Benz! Any photographs of the car?
Good luck!
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Originally Posted by wannakeepbenz
Hi All, Here's my story... I have an 86 420SEL that my father gave me before he passed away. He was the original owner and hardly drove it. The car was garaged since the day he brought it home and only has 68k miles. The car is in beautiful condition in and out except for one problem. It has no 2nd gear. It runs and drives fine but will shift from 1st to 3rd bypassing 2nd. When in third and I try to accelerate, and it downshifts to 2nd, the engine will just rev. Could it be something easy to fix or will it require a rebuild?
I took it toa couple of places and they all say the tranny needs to be replaced at a cost of 3k and up. I took it to 2 independents, a transmission specialist, and the dealer who wanted $5k. None suggested a teardown and fix of what I have....it would cost the same??????
I'm trying to see if there are other less expensive options as I would like to keep the car but cannot afford to dump in 3k. I've already spent almost 4k replacing all the brake pads,rotors,brake lines, master cylinder, shocks, springs, wheels and tiresthinking that this thing will last a long time but one
thing keeps happening after another.
I'm in San Francisco if anyone would like to suggest a good mechanic. Thanks!! Sorry for the long post.
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