I am still becoming familiar with my latest 400E purchase, and today noticed that going from reverse to drive, backing out of my driveway, there was a brief pause, then I could feel the transmission kick in. It felt like there was some slack or delay before engaging.

Is there a maintenance/wear part that may need replacing? Hopefully not a complete transmission. It feels strong otherwise.

Thank you,
Brian W.
92 400E
90 300E
87 260E

How brief?? 1-2 seconds is normal.

jeffsr

Yes, that is about right, 2-3 seconds, but it feels differently than what I would call a normal shift from reverse to drive.

Not sure how else to describe it.

Brian W.

I'll bet you've also noticed that it's a smooth, gentle takeup rather than a clunk de hump seen with other makes, models. Ahh.. the German engineering. If you do not have any other problems with the tranny, you are fine. Learn to love your new car. How 'bout the 300E. Anything similar. probably a little shorter..

Yes, very smooth and silky. The 300 and 260 do not feel as prominate in the delay, nor do they feel as long in the delay.

Yes, I absolutely love the Mercedes. The Mercedes V8 power is a dream. I can only imagine what the 500E and the 6L V12 are like. What do people do with that much power? That is a lot of fun in one vehicle!

Thanks jeffsr,

Brian W.

brianw,

The problem you are seeing/feeling seems to be very common in the 1992 400e. I have the same problem along with a few other 400e MercedesShop.com members.

Do a search on "400e transmission" and I beleive you will get a few hits. If I remember correctly, it is a design issue with the B-2 piston.

My only advice on what to do with the power..... ENJOY IT!

-David