'99 ML320 question

tlynch · #1 08-23-2017, 11:20 AM

I am looking for a beater to use to get to in and out of dove fields (my convertible was not made for that). There is a '99 ML 320 with 250,000 miles available locally for $850.

My uncertainty revolves around this info from the seller: "It slips in low gears. Once up and moving it's fine."

I'm OK wasting $850 if I get a season worth of use out of it and I can sell for a few bucks for parts. I'm not ok buying into a $5000 problem.

I think this vehicle has a 722.6 transmission. I've done some quick research, and it doesn't sound like coolant contamination (hard shifts). I would love for this to be something simple/easy/cheap, like the cable connector o-ring.

What are the good guesses and better advice from the informed community?

Thanks,
Tom

ILUVMILS · #2 08-23-2017, 12:05 PM

Have you driven it to see for yourself how it shifts? Has the ATF level been checked?

tlynch · #3 08-23-2017, 01:01 PM

I have not. It is almost an hour away. I'm making up my mind whether it is worth the effort to get down to see it.

I assume that this vehicle will also not have a transmission dipstick, so I don't have a way to check the level, even if I go.

I appreciate your help!
Tom

97 SL320 · #4 08-23-2017, 09:20 PM

I'm thinking this is a $ 300 to $ 400 car due to miles and issue.

Real description of a problem, Trans slips = engine revving beyond what it should for a particular gear.

Some car owners perception, trans slips = low engine power when moving from a stop, car sort of rolls OK when moving. ( Could be misfiring engine from bad plugs , ignition coils, fuel injector ) .

This is the same trans as a 98 + 4 matic E320, have a look in car-part.com.

tlynch · #5 08-23-2017, 09:59 PM

Thanks. I really appreciate your perspective. The re-statement of the symptom helps.

I didn't get down to see thecar today. We will see if someone else snaps it up.

Tom

TX76513 · #6 08-24-2017, 08:53 AM

Having had spirited repair sessions with many ML of this genre and making the assumption the PO isn't mechanically savvy. Run the PBDII codes and see if there is anything related to MAS. We have had two that shifted as you described and it was not a mechanical condition but a signal connection with the MAS being the culprit. Just .02c worth if you are going to pull the trigger on the girl. If the interior and exterior are in good shape I would not be afraid of this ML.

tlynch · #7 08-24-2017, 09:13 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TX76513

Having had spirited repair sessions with many ML of this genre and making the assumption the PO isn't mechanically savvy. Run the PBDII codes and see if there is anything related to MAS. We have had two that shifted as you described and it was not a mechanical condition but a signal connection with the MAS being the culprit. Just .02c worth if you are going to pull the trigger on the girl. If the interior and exterior are in good shape I would not be afraid of this ML.

Thanks! I appreciate the input.

We'll see if I can get there before someone else snaps it up.

Tom

PS How far is Brandon from Belton?