Transmission shifting speeds
 

Okay, I know this is a dumb question. . . but do I have a three-speed or four-speed transmission? It shifts two times (three-speeds) but some how I got the idea that I had a four speed transmission. The owner's manual doesn't say. It's an '88, 420 SEL with a 722.3 transmission (I believe). Also, at what speed or rpm should it shift low-to-second, second-to-third?

Jerry

It's 4 speeds, but starts off in second unless you really punch it, that's why it only shifts twice. If you floor it out of a light you'll feel it going from first to second - it's a more noticable shift.

Shifting points can be totally controlled by the driver. The maximum speed limit for each gear is indicated on your speedometer - one dot for first, two dots for second, and so fourth. It's on the inside of the circle under the numbers. It should be about 40Mph for first gear, and 72Mph for second.

Rich,

Thanks. It's surprising that the owner's manual doesn't cover the shifting characteristics of the car but then maybe I haven't read it carefully enough. I must say that it's fun orienting to "German engineering."

Jerry

That's part of the fun, you have to discover these things as you go. I'm sure most of the people who buy new MB's don't really care what gear they're starting out in, they're probably rich folks who lease a new one every 2 years.

I'm curious, but what are the 1st 2nd and 3rd gear speed limits on your 88 420SEL? I'm not sure why, but they seem to vary, even within the same model year.

First is at 40 mph, second at 72 mph, and third is between 120 and 125 mph. I imagine that if the car were driven to these limits, it would gulp a tank of gas in one sprint.