1991 300E transmission won't engage --- help
 

I apologize if it's a repost but I tried searching for a similar symptom and I found wealth of information about rebuilding 722.358 (just learned the code :)) transmissions but not a particular problem which I'm experiencing.

Transmission in my car just gave up, first it was engaging slightly, the car would get into a gear after few seconds (it was talking its time) and move. Now it doesn't move at all regardless of being in D 3 2 or R. if I maintain 2000+ RPM then it would move probably few inches. It all happened within couple of days, I did notice a sharp sound even when the car was stationary in P or D, the sound would go away after a little while. Now I don't hear that sound anymore.

So my questions are: if the transmission is gone, or it can be one of the vacuum lines or a modulator? BTW I have checked the tranny fluid level/color which looks fine.

Few weeks ago I replaced the belt tensioner though, I wonder If I could have disconnected something while I took apart some pullies and fan clutch. TIA

Any comments would be appreciated ---- BUMP

As a rule, noises, especially "sharp" ones are not a sign of a healthy transmission.
You could have any number of problems, but they are not likely related to anything you did regarding the belt. I believe your car should still move, even with a broken/disconnected vacuum line. You probably would want to run a pressure check and/or pull the pan and have a look before yanking out the trans altogether.

Thanks Fourings! I'll take out the oil pan and see what's going on. The thing is I didn't see it coming at all, I never abused it.

It sounds like a pressure relayed problem, plugged transmission filter or a failing transmission oil pump. A plugged filer will give a low oil pressure reading. I would remove the pan and filter, check for clutch and band debris in the filter and pan. If the filter is plugged changing it my buy some time.

If the car has spent most of its life putzing around town, it has been abused. Check your owners manual.