722.6 Shifter '98 SL500 D to 4th Video Help!! - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

dproudfo · #1 02-10-2018, 05:22 PM

Hi All!

I recently pulled the shifter from my new '98 SL500 to replace the shutter/belt and put a new bushing in. The belt replacement requires disassembly of the unit and I'm pretty sure I have the assembly back together as it should be. All shift points are functioning as they should with the unit without any binding, etc. outside the vehicle.

The question that I have is, after I install the shifter, there is a noticeable 'click' when transitioning from 4th back to Drive. (2 points of resistance instead of the usual 1 when shifting through the other gears) I know that this is engaging the mechanical/electrical transmission with the movement of the pin but am not sure if there should be a noticeable 'click' when re-engaging the mechanical side of the transmission. (nothing when moving from D to 4th or moving from the mechanical to electrical controlled shifting)

You can view the video of the movement HERE.

I'd hate to reassemble everything if there's an adjustment that needs to be made with the shifter still removed.

Any help would be MUCH appreciated! Thanks!

dproudfo · #2 02-10-2018, 06:02 PM

Forgot to mention that the secondary 'click' is not present with the shifter removed.

97 SL320 · #3 02-10-2018, 08:21 PM

The same shifter on my 97 SL320 is very stiff to move from D to 4 so that isn't a good comparison.

My 97 C280 with the same shifter is smooth, I haven't paid attention to any of the clicks.

The extra click might be from the transmission end. Have you adjusted the shift linkage?

For the benefit of others, Park through Drive moves linkage inside the trans. When shifting into 4 by moving the shifter sideways, the linkage is disengaged from the trans and 4 3 2 1 are selected by sending signals to the trans computer.

dproudfo · #4 02-10-2018, 08:40 PM

I haven't adjusted the shift linkage hoping I wouldn't need to with it being the same shifting unit. Based on my research it sounds like the shift unit itself isn't adjustable...only the linkage to the trans. Not sure if anything could have shifted from removal and re-installation?

dproudfo · #5 02-12-2018, 06:50 PM

Pulled the shifter unit again and played around with the arm to see how its position responded to the actual shifter. It's very sensitive in the 'cross' gear from D to 4th and back again. If there's any load on it it'll bind and make that secondary 'click' noise. I shimmed a few mm in the rear of the shifter during re-installation to adjust the pitch...works smooth as a button now which is how it is supposed to be. New function is HERE.

Hope this helps!

dproudfo · #6 03-27-2018, 12:23 AM

Another follow-up...you can't make any adjustments to the pitch of the shifter. If you do the console panel 'bridge' won't be able to position itself properly to not only secure the shifter but also mess with all of the trim that attaches above it. End result...careful adjustment of the torques on all of the bolts following reassembly of the center console. All seems good now...live and learn.