'76 450SL Transmission
 

HELP.... I bought my car used so I don't know how it's supposed to feel, but when I shift the transmission into reverse it takes several seconds to engage. It immediately goes into drive when shifted there, but regardless of where it's shifted from, reverse takes its time to engage. Is my trainy going? Is there a simple fix? Is this something that needs Professional help? I'm a pretty good home mechanic, but I have zero experience working on automatic transmissions.

Thanks for your help!!!

Michael:confused:

Most older Mercedes that I have experience with will hesitate before moving after placed in reverse.

Do a search. I can recall this being discussed a number of times, but do not remember what any results were.

A delay is normal in most MB trannies going into reverse. Some models it can be worse. Your trannie does have an external reverse band adjustment though, that should only be adjusted by one with experience.

If it is too tight it can cause the band to self energize and lock up the beast in two gears. I have had it happen to me twice (at about 10mph), scarry!

450sl adjustment
 

My 450sl has the same problem. Steve says you should use caution adjusting the band. Does anyone have any experience with this that has gone bad. M.B.Doc says 5 in. lbs. then back off 2 turns, about how many threads should be showing above the jamnut after this. Also if this doesn't fix the problem what next? Servo? bands? thanks for all the good advice.

jmdunn