I have the minimal reverse situation with a 1992 300D with a 722.418 tranny. I.e, it takes a long time to engage reverse gear, and then it has no power, just slips if you raise the rpms. Does go backs slowly in idle on a flat surface though.

From help at this site, I've concluded it is either clogged up/worn out valvebody springs, or the B3 piston has issues.

My question is: How likely is it to be the valve body?

Seems like a long shot. Especially when I think about how burnt smelling the tranny fluid was when I replaced it due to this issue. Means the plates aren't engaging properly - either due to lack of pressure from the valve body action or worn piston or plates, right?

Can you tell visually when you open the valvebody that it has an issue, or do you have to put new springs/seals in and reinstall it to check?

thanks.

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1983 240D Silver/Blue "Sadie", unknown miles. 100k miles on WVO single tank, converted to 2 tank about 10k miles ago, FPHE, Injector Heaters, Aux Fuel pump. Alcohol/Water injection. Frantz oil bypass filter
1992 300D 2.5 Turbo Green/Tan "Jade" 267K miles Stock.
1992 300D 2.5 tan/tan "Rocky" on 2 tank WVO. Pressure actuated Turbo "rat's nest" surgery completed. 197k miles