I have an automatic 1985 300D Turbo. I need to replace the bushings because it is very loose (side to side movement) after engaging any gear. Could anyone tell me how easy it is? or Should I take it to a dealer?

I once had a similar problem with my '84 300D. The rubber grommet/bushing attaching the end of the shifter to the tranny linkage was gone. I skimmed the aisles at the auto parts store until I found a variety pack of grommets. I used one that fit snugly into the hole at the shifter's end, and placed a small piece of overflow tubing onto the linkage shaft, where the end of the shifter fits around. Sound confusing? If you carefully remove the wooden console around the shift housing, and then the housing itself, I think you'll see what I'm talking about. It was a bit tedious, but quite within the grasp of a competent DIY-er, and it was a good learning experience to boot.

If you make the attempt, just be careful with all that nice wood.

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Matt
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1995 E300 Diesel (Die Blau Frau)

The bushing, p/n 115-992-03-10, list price is $0.85. You possibly need two, one is under the shifter stick (as Zoonhollis stated) where a horizontal rod is attached. The other one is at the other end of the horizontal rod attached to the tranny's lever near the safety switch. I do it under the car to access the first bushing. For the second bushing, I remove the tranny mounting bracket to drop the tranny down a little to access the second bushing. The hard part is to slip the bushing into the hole of the shifter stick or the tranny lever. I am thinking of making a tool to install the bushing if it is not commercially available. The bushing slips into the hole and then the end of the horizontal rod goes inside the bushing.

David

I've done this job a couple of times.

I find it easiest to remove the input lever from the side
of the transmission and then replace the bushing on the
bench.

The bushings can be a real bear to insert. Try soaking them
in hot water to soften up the plastic. I've actually
trimmed down the retaining "flanges" on one bushing that
just wouldn't go into place. It's only been 18 months,
but I don't think it's coming out anytime soon.

Jcyunh,

Thank you for the good tips. I will try your suggestions next time.

David