1985 380SE Tranny problem/ Parts car? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

jackmac · #1 03-23-2010, 07:22 PM

I think my transmission quit on my 1985 380SE. Engine started to race in gear and then it wouldn't move in any gear. Had it towed to the shop and waiting for the verdict. How much does a rebuilt tranny go for installed? Is the car worth parting out? It has less than 120K on it and the body is in good shape (paint's tired). Engine runs fine and it has been maintained (exhaust, cat conv, tires, oil changes etc). I hate to see a good 126 retire if it has life left in it.

pawoSD · #2 03-23-2010, 07:33 PM

A used trans can be had very reasonably, I replaced the one in my 300SD for about $350.

120k is very low miles for a MB trans to fail (unless badly maintained/abused)....mine lasted to 281k!

I'd replace the trans. A nice 380SE is a pretty rare car!

jackmac · #3 03-23-2010, 07:38 PM

When you say replaced, you mean DIY, rebuilt or used?

pawoSD · #4 03-23-2010, 08:15 PM

I swapped out my failed one with a used replacement myself. If a shop has to do it, add about $1000-1300 or so depending on the shop.

If I did it again I'd probably just get it rebuilt locally....then I'd have a brand new trans.

86560SEL · #5 03-24-2010, 12:34 AM

I agree. My old 1985 380SE had 278K when I sold it with a perfectly shifting transmission and it was not well maintained either.

Quote:

Originally Posted by pawoSD

120k is very low miles for a MB trans to fail (unless badly maintained/abused)....mine lasted to 281k!

jackmac · #6 03-24-2010, 09:59 AM

I live in NYC folks. Not highway driving. We get 20K out of brake pads if we're lucky. Twenty five years of stop and go takes its toll on a tranny.

jackmac · #7 03-24-2010, 10:34 AM

My mechanic said the tranny cooler failed and dumped the coolant into the transmission fluid. Torque converter seized. Needs new tranny and cooler which is about $3000 with labor. Looks like she's a goner - parts anyone?

jackmac · #8 03-25-2010, 12:39 PM

It didn't move in any gear. Tranny was shot. The cooler blew out and all the coolant mixed with the tranny fluid and torque converter let go.

jackmac · #9 03-25-2010, 12:52 PM

I'm getting it fixed. Can't bear to part with the old girl.