I've seen a couple DIY articles on fixing the 3/2 way vacuum switches that are on the valve cover (actuated by a cam off the throttle linkage). This, supposedly will correct hard shifting (in addition to the vacuum dashpot?).


On my 85, however, this is not present on the valve cover. Instead I have a throttle micro-switch which seems to be for "thrust cut-off".


Is this part of an anti-slip feature? Does this serve the same function as the 3/2 way valve? Do I have a 3/2 way vacuum switch somewhere else? I am experiencing hard shifting intermittantly. I think it's probably the dashpot, but haven't checked yet...

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Obiwanrazzy
1985 300D 267k and hemorrhaging...

That is the kickdown switch -- it forces the transmichigan to downshift to the next lower gear, providing engine RPM will allow it. On the '85, it also operates a relay (the Klima relay) to temporarily disconnect the A/C compressor, making more engine power available for the neck-snapping acceleration that our diesels are known and loved for.

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"Buster" in the '95

Our all-Diesel family
1996 E300D (W210) . .338,000 miles Wife's car
2005 E320 CDI . . 113,000 miles My car
Santa Rosa population 176,762 (2022)
Total. . . . . . . . . . . . 627,762
"Oh lord won't you buy me a Mercedes Benz."
-- Janis Joplin, October 1, 1970