Throttle adjustment

[96C280]

Does anyone have the specifications for setting/adjusting the throttle assembly that includes the bowden cable on a 1996 C280? I have tried several adjustments with various results.

The goals are the following:

1. Throttle (gas pedal) tip-in response
2. Transmission kickdown
3. Transmission shift smoothness
4. Overall pedal feel (loose or tight)

I have had success in achieving up to 3 of the goals at one time. At this time, the transmission is not very willing to kickdown but everything else is perfect. I know some people say to adjust the bowden cable at this point, but simply adjusting just this cable results in deterioration of the other items. So am asking if anyone can tell me the "big picture" with these adjustments. Apparently the adjustable parts of this assembly are:
1. Gas pedal tip-in cable
2. Intake manifold slide adjustment
3. bowden cable (what exactly does a bowden cable do?)

By the way, for those who have complained about throttle response, kickdown, etc., these adjustments make pretty dramatic changes to the way the car drives. Positively and negatively.

[Mick J]

You're not supposed to touch the length of the sliding bar on the throttle linkage. So set it so it's about where it was before, then follow the procedure I have described at E320 throttle & trans cable adj settings

Good luck!

[96C280]

Mick,

thanks for the reply. Why wouldn't you adjust the sliding bar versus the other two? They all seem to work in conjunction with each other. Wondering...

[Mick J]

Don't know, Haynes manual just says 'the procedure is very complex'.

However, for other engine types (earlier KE Jetronic systems fitted to M102/3 engines in E class) it says that after disconnecting the cable you prise off the ball joint and move the guide lever until the roller rests against the idle speed end stop. then adjust the length of the rod so it fits without any tension.

The difference with yours is that there are two rods in the linkage with a bell crank. If you don't get it right then the rate at which the throttle opens in relation to the tension in the transmission cable will be wrong and you won't get the right quality shift.