I just bought my second Benz...a 81 300TD with 141k miles on it. It's in great shape and I would like to go on a long trip with it but I want to make sure the tranny is in good shape. I've searched for posts on transmissions ,but I'm not finding what I need. The forward gears seem to be shifting well, however reverse gear is taking a second or two to engage. The mechanic for the previous owner (of 10 years) said it needs to be rebuilt immediately $$$$ . I understand that may be true, but I would like other opinions...Any info. would be of great help.

Is there an adjustment I could try first? or ?

Thanks,
Hoss

A "second or two" doesn't sound that bad--I think my 95 does that. Before a rebuild, I would do the basics, like a transmission power flush with new fluid, etc. I wouldn't worry about it--I haven't heard anything about this, but anyone correct me if I'm wrong.

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2002 Mercedes-Benz E320 4Matic
1995 Mercedes-Benz E320 Wagon
2005 Land Rover LR3 V8 SE
1999 Audi A8 4.2L quattro

Your transmission is beginning to show signs of wear, but an immediate rebuild is NOT required. My '84 300D takes a full 2 seconds to engage reverse...and it's been that way for 40,000 miles.

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Matt
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1995 E300 Diesel (Die Blau Frau)

Thanks for the replys! So far, I have two mechanics that want my money and two that say the same as your posts... I think I'll wait a while and monitor it for any changes.
Thanks again.

If you do not know when the last time the fluid/filter was changed I would start there. I would make sure that if/when you do get it rebuilt that they have done one of these trannies before. The best route to go in regards to repairing/replacing the tranny, in my opinion, would be to purchase a MB rebuilt from the dealer and swap it out yourself.

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Jim