How could I not know this? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Richard1 · #1 08-11-2002, 08:32 PM

I've owned my 560 SL since 1987 and had no idea that it started in 2nd until I read some recent posts...all this time, I've been doing modifications to the exhaust and engine to get more power off the line.

Today, I shifted into 1st and put it in drive, then stomped. Holly Sh_t! I'd feel like an idiot if I wasn't so happy about it.

jaybirdw · #2 08-12-2002, 10:37 AM

Richard,

Could you be a little more explicit on what you did? e.g. Did you momentarily go into "1" and then into drive before moving ahead, or did you get up to some speed in "1" before shifting into Drive?

Thanks,

Jay
1987 560 SL

Richard1 · #3 08-16-2002, 11:35 PM

I shifted into 1st from a stand still, then shifted into drive, from a stand still, and then floored it. The 560 SL will normally start in 2nd gear.

#4 08-23-2002, 07:37 PM

Doesn't do it on mine. I have to start in first, then shift into drive.

Why do they start off in 2nd?

Holson Adi · #5 08-23-2002, 08:13 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Alan Cone
Doesn't do it on mine. I have to start in first, then shift into drive.

Why do they start off in 2nd?

To make the cars smoother off the line I guess.. and slower too...
I saw a 560SL take off and beat some boy-racer in his Civic (probably a DX though.. :p ) the 560 pulled really strong!

Richard1 · #6 08-24-2002, 09:53 AM

Alan, which year and model do you have? I've spoken to a number of 560 owners and they confirmed that shifting into 1st, letting the car roll a hair, and then drive will allow you to start off the line in 1st, so my experience isn't isolated.

TSL · #7 08-28-2002, 10:29 AM

Interesting about trans, always wondering if something is wrong with mine.

I have a 72 SLC with the 4 speed auto, I have to pull down to 1st before the super low will engage, when it does it screams through super low and first, then I have to shift to 2nd and 3rd. Additionally when in D and given the right amount of pressure on gas pedal, trans takes off in 1st and will hit 2nd to bark the tires. If a cop hears this they will try to give me a ticket. I am only guessing but I believe someone put a shift kit in trans or it is about ready to break. I know the auto was modified by Zender in 72 then shipped to US. I have experienced a race with a Toyota Supra turbo (brand new rebuild), jumped him up to 60 mph, he just left me at that point.

72 SLC 3.5L - 99,000

#8 09-10-2002, 06:44 PM

And I was wondering why I only counted 2 upshifts when getting on the highway. Thought I'd missed an overdrive button or something but I knew it had 4 speeds!...

Of course I don't feel so bad having only owned my 87 for about 12 days now...heh-heh