1999 ML430 Original owner.... original transmission. Fluid replacement at 100,000 and 200,000 miles.

Today returning from errands, ML sounded 'different' and I actually thought one of the tires was about to go flat. After visually checking tires, I knew it was a more serious problem. ML in neutral and park makes a distinct growling noise which I suspect is the transmission. Noise goes away in reverse and drive.

I'm scared to drive it and do further damage , so I'll make some phone calls tomorrow to some local shops here in the Atlanta area. Probably have it flat-bedded to the shop I choose.

Couple of questions :

Do these symptoms sound familiar ? One posting mentioned the transfer case bearings.

Can anyone recommend a GOOD source for a rebuilt transmission for my ML?
I am considering this outfit from E-Bay.......seems like a damn good price as opposed to a new factory unit.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Mercedes-ML320-ML430-ML500-AWD-Transmission_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ33727QQihZ006QQitemZ160013052852QQrdZ1QQsspagenameZWDVW

Anyone got an idea of what standard labor would be to replace the tranny?

Bottom line is....If I have to replace the transmission, it needs to be inexpensive. My ML with the high miles ain't worth a whole lot but is in GREAT condition and I LOVE IT ! Anybody had any experience with the rebuilds ?

Thanks !!

I friend of mine did something similar with a '99 E320 with about 90K miles. He went to a trusted indy we have around and he recommended to buy a re-built with 1 year warranty for 2K + shipping. The indy will pull the old, send back to rebuilders, install rebuilt, and set-up addaptation with proper equipment.

My friend end up paying:

$2,000 for re-built tranny
$300 shipping of re-built tranny
$1,200 indy labor
$300 shipping old tranny
=====
$3,800 + tax = total

After a year, he says his tranny is running as new.

In your case, after 250K, I agree with you, would look for some cheaper solution. Just to let you know that a re-built for $2K may end up being twice that much at the end of the day.

Maybe you should look for newer used one instead.

Anyways, keep us posted.

Rene

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'99 ML320, '00 C280

Good news ! Took it to an independant shop in the Atlanta area and looks like it was the transfer case that had caused the problems. I'm having it replaced and the shop is going to drop the pan on the transmission to check it and refill with new synthetic. Damages somewhere in the $2500.00 range.

Will keep ya'll posted on results.........

Just curious Springer............... did you ever have the transfer case fluid changed?