I have a 1986 190E 2.3 w201 with a bad gear box. Been working on a little each day since last weekend and got to the point where the trans should just drop out. My question is do I need to unbolt the torque converter or just pry the tranny off the back of the motor? If I do need to unbolt the torque converter, can someone just give me a quick way please?

The torque convertor is locked into the front pump in the transmission. You have to unbolt it or you break the pump gears. Removal is easy -- remove black plastic cover on bellhousing and rotate flex plate by use of a pry bar on the grooves of the torque converter (CAREFULLY) and undo all (6) bolts holding it in.

Hope you have a transmission jack!!

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2016 Monsoon Gray Audi Allroad - 21k
2008 Black Mercedes E350 4Matic Sport - 131k
2014 Jeep Wranger Unlimited Sahara - 62k
2003 Gray Mercedes ML350 - 122k

Thanks. You just saved my ass.

Make sure on installation you lock the pump gears in CORRECTLY. Otherwise, again, you break it.

Don't ask me how I know about that step!!
Below is a photo of the gear that holds the torque convertor in. You gotta spin the convertor while pulling gently and it will come out.

__________________
2016 Monsoon Gray Audi Allroad - 21k
2008 Black Mercedes E350 4Matic Sport - 131k
2014 Jeep Wranger Unlimited Sahara - 62k
2003 Gray Mercedes ML350 - 122k

Let me try that. I might be coming back soon with more questions.

Thought this might help you...

Automatic Transmission Seal Leak Diagnosis Part 1 by Kent Bergsma - YouTube

__________________
2016 Monsoon Gray Audi Allroad - 21k
2008 Black Mercedes E350 4Matic Sport - 131k
2014 Jeep Wranger Unlimited Sahara - 62k
2003 Gray Mercedes ML350 - 122k