New 300SD owner - where to get parts? And trans problem. - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

tenknots · #1 07-09-2004, 01:31 PM

I just bought a 1981 300SD from the original owner. Only 150k miles, but needs a few things (windows, cruise, etc.). Where is the best place to get small used parts like window switches, climate control buttons, etc..

Also, I've searched the web and learned alot about tranmission problems, but my 240 was a manual and I haven't dug into the auto yet.

The problem is harsh shifts. I know what causes it, but I'm not sure where to start so that I don't have to go over and repeat myself.

The 1-2 shift is pretty harsh unless I'm on the throttle. That would seem to indicate that the vacuum is not enough at low speeds, correct? Sometimes in traffic, I can be in 2nd for a while and it won't shift until I give it just a bit more throttle. Then, it's very abrupt even though I'm only at 1200 rpm. High throttle shifts are smooth and firm, but part throttle is NOT.

I've replace one vacuum switch (located in the black box on the valve cover) since one was backordered, and there was no change. Do these switches have any affect on the transmission other than if they have leaking hoses?

I've adjusted the transmission cable to force higher rpm shifts (it was rapidly shifting through to 4th and still does a little sometimes). Maybe I should back that off until the harshness is corrected?

What a fabulous car. Coming from a "I think I can, I think I can" 240D, this car is powerful and luxurious.

Thanks in advance for any suggestions. This forum is great!