Is there such a thing as a cheap transmission repair? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

dtf · #1 02-25-2009, 09:53 PM

I've done some searches covering my problem and now I am looking for guidance please. The transmission on my '94 E320 wagon with 308,000 miles failed and slips badly in all gears including reverse. This started without any warning last Tuesday. I have maintained the transmission every 30,000 miles as recommended. I can't do any work myself as I don't have a garage. Could it be something like the Bowden cable adjustment I've read about in other posts?

JonL · #2 02-25-2009, 10:08 PM

Check the fluid level, could be a clogged or loose filter.... Good luck.

compress ignite · #3 02-25-2009, 10:10 PM

'Acquire one from a ReCycler.'Less Expensive,Yes!
(Not "Cheap",You do not want "Cheap".'Besides there's no such thing.)
('There's only Excellent VS Horrible.)
Excellent would be an old world craftsman,trained in Germany who has been
reman.(ing) Trannys for 40+ years.
Horrible would be the kid who changes oil at the speedy lube during the day
and teaches himself to work on transmissions (with yours) by night.

Is this an Original Transmission? (No ReMans?) 300K is impressive!

pawoSD,

That's an Incredible Bargain/Investment!

pawoSD · #4 02-25-2009, 10:11 PM

Our local rebuilder will do a MB trans for about $900ish...full rebuild. I call that pretty cheap!

TMAllison · #5 02-25-2009, 10:19 PM

Its prob given you all the service it owes you....you might try cranking up the modulator pressure (to firm up shifts) AND adjust the bowden cable so it shifts at different RPM's than before. Might find a sweet spot. It'll prob kick like a mule, especially when cold.

The above after you've confrimed the modulator or other vacuum line isn't leaking of course.

babymog · #6 02-25-2009, 10:32 PM

Probably the front pump, you will quickly destroy what's left if you drive a slipping transmission.

Get it in to a reputable shop, have the pan dropped and pressures tested.

dpkreuze · #7 02-26-2009, 07:15 AM

Friend,
I recently had a trans with the exact same symptom. It functioned normally for a high mileage trans. Suddenly the trans began to slip in all ranges selected. The fluid level was actually high. Fluid was not burnt. Small pieces of yellowed nylon were found in the pan. When the valve body was removed I noticed the nylon oil deflector at the front of the trans was broken and the pieces scattered about in the valve body. The pieces had blocked the function of the primary valve. The part was cheap but the labor a little intensive.

pifcat2 · #8 02-26-2009, 04:32 PM

if you must replace it and keep the car, my mechanic advised against a rebuilt. His experience was they only last a few years at best. He said a good used transmission will last longer and since a new one would cost more than the value of the car...

Wodnek · #9 03-08-2009, 09:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pifcat2

if you must replace it and keep the car, my mechanic advised against a rebuilt. His experience was they only last a few years at best. He said a good used transmission will last longer and since a new one would cost more than the value of the car...

I have always felt this way myself.