I'm not getting any trans kickdown. Trans shifts smoothly & properly, but no kickdown. I've verified 12 volts power to the trans kickdown solenoid thru the kickdown switch. I can hear and feel a slight click at the solenoid when my son floors the accelerator pedal with the key on. The click feels and sounds like it may be too weak for the solenoid to be doing its job. I have the MB service manual, the MB 117 engine manual, and the MB maintenence manual. None of these tell me how to remove or test this component. Searches of this forum have revealed some limited information that the solenoids are prone to sticking, but nobody specifically adresses removal, replacement, or repair. Can anyone help with the following questions?

Can I remove the solenoid to test it without springs or check balls flying out that I won't know how to replace?

If it's stuck, can it be unstuck and be expected to be reliable?

Is the solenoid available new if I need to replace it?


Thanks for any help!

Tom Drew

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1972 280SE 4.5