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  #1  
Old 11-26-2012, 01:46 PM
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Transmission alternatives

My local independent shop says the transmission needs a rebuild (193,000 miles on it), and the total is likely to be in the $2500 range. I was not expecting a rebuild at this time, so I am looking for alternative approaches.

Can anyone give me a quick set of Pros and Cons on swapping in a used transmission? At first glance, it looks like it would be cheaper to get a used transmission for $800-$1000. This seems like I might be kicking the can not very far down the road, since the used items have 150,000 or more miles on them.

Anyone have experience with this same decision?

Thanks!
Tom

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Last edited by tlynch; 11-26-2012 at 02:12 PM.
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  #2  
Old 11-26-2012, 02:55 PM
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How much for a Mercedes rebuilt unit (with nationwide warranty)?
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  #3  
Old 11-26-2012, 04:42 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by BobK View Post
How much for a Mercedes rebuilt unit (with nationwide warranty)?
Do you mean one rebuilt by Mercedes? I don't know. I guess I have been under the assumption that Mercedes would not be the price leader in this equation.

Thanks!
Tom
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  #4  
Old 11-26-2012, 04:45 PM
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check Adistco or german Star
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  #5  
Old 11-26-2012, 04:54 PM
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Originally Posted by oldsinner111 View Post
check Adistco or german Star
Adsit prices:
Rebuilt: Online : $1,495.00
Used : Online : $850.00
Plus $299 shipping

Torque converter is an extra $300 + $100 shipping.


How many hours of labor should I expect to make a swap?

Thanks!
Tom
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Last edited by tlynch; 11-26-2012 at 05:09 PM.
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  #6  
Old 11-26-2012, 05:03 PM
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Do you trust the shop that gave you this diagnosis? What were the symptoms? That's not a whole lot of miles for one of these transmissions.

This wouldn't be the first time that someone who doesn't understand these transmissions called for a remove and replace.
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  #7  
Old 11-26-2012, 05:14 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Carpenterman View Post
Do you trust the shop that gave you this diagnosis? What were the symptoms? That's not a whole lot of miles for one of these transmissions.

This wouldn't be the first time that someone who doesn't understand these transmissions called for a remove and replace.
I trust them to know their way around a Mercedes. MB is their focus, and they have a loyal following. They have been fair in all of my previous dealings.

Transmissions are somewhat of a black box to me, so my BS filter is underdeveloped on the topic.

Thanks!
Tom
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  #8  
Old 11-26-2012, 05:44 PM
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As Carpenterman, what are your symptoms? Most of these boxes will do 200k easily + if looked after, my previous E300D had 226k when I sold it on the original transmission and shifted perfectly.
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  #9  
Old 11-26-2012, 05:47 PM
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The W124 E300D transmission is pretty weak compared to the more powerful gas engined ones. But live quite well behind the lazy yet smooth OM606.

Some symptoms that dictate quick repair to put into commission again are.

Transmission will not upshift from 1st gear in any forward range = broken governor drive gear

There are quite a few threads here that can lead to a read and maybe saving of money too.

But - if you do get to order a replacement - verify that you are getting a 722.435 transmission model. (I read this no. off the build sheet of my car and the trans also)

the 2.5 turbo 300D also uses a 722.4xx transmission but upshifts earlier. I dont recall its exact model no.
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  #10  
Old 11-26-2012, 06:58 PM
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I would never pay what these shops are asking for tranny work. It just doesn't make sense relative to the value of the overall car. When my '85 Coupe tranny failed, I got quotes around $2500 also for the rebuild swap job. I sourced an '85 tranny for $75 and had a shop swap it for $400, I supplied the fluids and filter and he kept the core. So I was good to go for for about $525.... and she runs great.
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  #11  
Old 11-26-2012, 08:08 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by chazola View Post
As Carpenterman, what are your symptoms? Most of these boxes will do 200k easily + if looked after, my previous E300D had 226k when I sold it on the original transmission and shifted perfectly.
Main symptom is slip between 2nd and 3rd. It feels like I may have some slip on other shifts, too. This perceived degradation is my motivation to seek help.

In addition, I have a "thunk" that I have been told is bad rear end bushings.

Thanks for all the good input, guys!
Tom
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  #12  
Old 11-26-2012, 08:29 PM
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I'm not familiar with your year and model but if what you describe was happening in a 123 it would be called 'flaring' and there would be fixes for it which did not require a new transmission.
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  #13  
Old 11-26-2012, 09:06 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by kerry View Post
I'm not familiar with your year and model but if what you describe was happening in a 123 it would be called 'flaring' and there would be fixes for it which did not require a new transmission.
That would be good news!

This was my hope at the outset, but I recognize that I don't know everything there is to know to dispute a different diagnosis.

I will admit that it has been frustrating to visit a transmission shop that can't detect an obvious slip or flare, followed by a Mercedes specialist who jumped straight to rebuild. I need a shop that can acknowledge the flare, and put it in context. Maybe the third time will be a charm.

Anyone have a recommendation in Austin?

Thanks!
Tom
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  #14  
Old 11-26-2012, 09:39 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by tlynch View Post
Anyone have a recommendation in Austin?

Thanks!
Tom
i know a honest mechanic down here in san marcos who is euro-centric. if you want the number to his shop, drop me a pm. he's french and he LOVES to talk, so be prepared to spend a chunk of time chatting.
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  #15  
Old 11-26-2012, 09:50 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by pgringo View Post
i know a honest mechanic down here in san marcos who is euro-centric. if you want the number to his shop, drop me a pm. he's french and he LOVES to talk, so be prepared to spend a chunk of time chatting.
PM on the way!

Tom

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