1997 E320 W210 shifter out of alignment

[Bigdaddybenz]

Sorry about the title guys, I really didn't know any better way to describe the problem that I am experiencing.....

I have a 1997 W210, E320 with 196,000 miles on it....Most recently, I have experienced minor problems with the transmission shifter/gear selector....

I assure you that (after reading many posts when I purchased this car 5 years ago) no liquid has spilled anywhere near the shifter.....I and my wife are very conscious of the ramifications....

I suspect that my wife may have, at some point, put the car in PARK without coming to a complete stop......I've seen her do this on her 1995 E320 and Her 1983 300SD.......Of course, I've told her not to do this, but.........

Anyway, the problem that I am experiencing with my 1997 E320, is that the shifter seems to have somewhat lost its synchronization when engaging either Drive or Reverse.....In some cases, it's almost as if that "detent" feeling that you get when engaging either gear is elusive.......I did notice, that if you move the gear selector slowly and gungerly, that it goes into gear coprrectly every time........My concern is that this will eventually get worse and I'll find myself stranded and unable to drive the vehicle....

If anyone knows what the possible cause could be, please enlighten me, I've done searches on this subject, but nothing I ran across actually addressed this particular scenario.....

AS always, any replies are greatly appreciated

[Matt L]

There is a mechanical linkage to the transmission for the PRND positions. It is probably out of adjustment.

[Arthur Dalton]

First suspect is the shift rod bushing is shot. Simple, cheapo. common wear part...

http://catalog.peachparts.com/ShopByVehicle.epc?q=&yearid=1997@@1997&makeid=MB@@MB@@X&modelid=E%2D320%2D002@@E+320+Sedan&catid=J@@Transmission&subcatid=J4070@@AT+Shift+Linkage+Bushing&applicationid=000454682&mode=PA

[Bigdaddybenz]

Thanks a lot guys! I'm on it!!!!