300D transmission into a 280CE.

[alfa 75]

I apologize for cross-posting this from the gas forum, just seems like there are more w123 guys here.

I've got an opportunity to buy a 280CE with a bad transmission- would a transmission from another w123 bolt up to the 280 engine?

[t walgamuth]

This is a swap that i have done. It bolts up and works just fine except the shift points will be set for diesel redlines instead of the much higer revving gas motor.

The shifting is a bit odd but after you get used to it its not that much bother.

There may be a way to swap in the parts that regulate the shifting from the gasser so that all is perfection.

Tom W

[79Mercy]

How does it shift? To high or to Low? What RPM was it shifting at?

It shouldn't be a concern. A simple bowden cable adjustment will change the shift RPM to what it needs to be.

[alfa 75]

Tom, I assume this was a 300D transmission? I'm getting really tempted now..

[t walgamuth]

I am not sure whether it was from a 240 or 300d.

It shifts at too low an rpm to be ideal for the 280e motor.

Tom W

[t walgamuth]

Originally Posted by ForcedInduction

It shouldn't be a concern. A simple bowden cable adjustment will change the shift RPM to what it needs to be.

I thought there was a sort of governor type device which determined shift points in an automatic tranny.

Tom W

[79Mercy]

You have to get these 280's reved over 3000 to get them to move. I usually let it shift inbetween 3-4K.

Originally Posted by t walgamuth

I thought there was a sort of governor type device which determined shift points in an automatic tranny.

Nope.

The bowden cable (on top of the valve cover on diesels) controls shift RPM and vacuum controls how firm the gear change feels.

[79Mercy]

forced is correct.

[alfa 75]

Now I'm tempted.. I know there are two 300Ds in junkyards, I could take a gamble on either transmission.

[79Mercy]

pick the tranny that has less grease on it. Let me know how it goes, if my tranny ever goes out i'll know what to replace it with.