Hi there,

I have a 1983 280CE with an auto trans that I think is on the way out. It seems not to be transferring much power and it makes a bad whine in 2nd (doesn't seem to whine in 3rd and 4th so I'm guessing it's an issue with the actual gears).

I've picked up a spare trans from a mercedes breaker for the equivalent of around $40. The guy seemed very honest and said it had driven fine on the 280TE it had come from. The car had 120k miles on it.

I've got the trans in my garage and have been cleaning it up (there was a lot of filth from the road on it as you'd imagine, particularly as it's been on UK roads for 120k miles.

It'd be great if people gave me their opinions on what to do to the trans while it's out of the car and I have good access to it before putting it on the car (I was thinking of replacing the B2 piston, doing the K1 spring kit, and of course replacing the trans mount). Anything else I should do?

Also, are there any tips or tricks (or things to watch for/expect trouble from) when swapping the trans over? I have a 12 foot by 25 foot garage with a small inspection pit, some ramps and jack stands, and a few different trolley and screw jacks.

I've not seen a DIY or thread with photos for removing the trans - is there one out there or is it so obvious it doesn't need it?

Thanks
Mike

I'll try to get my signature in order so you all know what I have