This car was in storage for almost a year, after starting it up and test driving, the transmission shifted sluggishly.

Checked trans fluid level and was 1 1/2 quarts low. Filled with fluid and resumed test drive. Slow shift response stopped, drove approx. 15 miles then parked it.

Week later, started and tried to drive with same result. Shifting did not occur until engine rev'd up to 4000 rpm.

Serviced trans (new fluid and filter). No change in problem.

Need advice if adjustment or additional maintainence is needed.

Thanks to those that respond.

The bowden cable is what is responsible for shift timming. If the car was in storage and the trottle linkage became sticky at the area where the cable attaches to the throttle, this could be the whole problem.

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Benzmac:
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
LEAD TECHNICIAN FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM

By the "bowden" cable, I assume you are talking about the flexible cable from the throttle linkage to the trans.(pass. side)

It is free to move in it's casing and the casing is not broken or cracked (which would let the cable expand). Appears okay.

Since you indicated that the cable controlled the shift points, I experimented with different throttle positions (increasing acceleration) to see if there was a change in the trans operation.

At approx. 85% throttle, the car actually shifted completely thru the gears. 4th engaged at 85 mph (Yipes) and 4800 rpm.
That was fun !

Immediately releasing the throttle, it DOWNSHIFTED back to 3d gear. Didn't revert to neutal and coast. Accelerating again brought a shift to 4th gear as before.

This car was not doing anything like this before it was stored, any ideas?

I would take it to a pro. You have done all that you can. Good luck

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Benzmac:
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
LEAD TECHNICIAN FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM