I am writing for my brother-in-law again. Over the weekend he is having some problems with his 85 16v. Last week his transmisson was working normal with no problems at all. The first problem was when he tried to shift down to 1st gear he couldn't and at that time he notice when he release his cluth pedal it did not return to the up position. He pulled the cluth back up with his foot and started to pump it until it felt like normal. Then shifting became "notchy" it was hard to shift. He also notice a buzzing sound. I took the the car for a drive and also notice a smell. It was like smelling hot brakes.

Thank always for the help,
Mauro
87 190e 2.3-16

Better check the brake fluid reservoir for volume...somethings leaking.

I would check the hydraulic clutch system for leaks....your brake fluid might be low...take a look. Clutch slave cylinder is probably shot. If you are getting in and out of gears its more likely the hydraulics than the tranny. Crawl under and take a peek.

In my experience this could as previous posters indicate, be a hydraulic problem. Since the pedal stuck down, I expect that it is. However, similar symptoms can develop because of a failed pressure plate. I have had a finger break and work it's way underneath the "nest" of fingers and cause the clutch to not release. This would not cause the pedal to stick down.

Look for hydraulic leaks and proper bleeding. If it's a hydraulic problem it may be the slave cylinder, but it could be elsewhere in the hydraulics just as easily.

Good luck,

------------------
Larry Bible
'84 Euro 240D, 523K miles
'88 300E 5 Speed
'81 300D Daughter's Car
Over 800,000 miles in
Mercedes automobiles

Mauro:

Had the EXACT same problem with my 1986 2.3-16V last week. The problem started in the *feel* of the clutch pedal while being depressed -- soft for the first 20%, then very little resistance the rest of the way down (still driveable, but worrysome). This developed into full scale clutch-pedal-to-the floor with no resistance except the return spring. I also had to slip my foot under the pedal to bring it back up. Needless to say, I could not disengage the clutch plates, therefore could not get it into gear (thus, could not move the car from out of my garage). Had to have it towed to my shop :( Bottom line: New clutch Master AND Slave cylinders -- it drives like new now!

Have your brother check the clutch master cylinder first. It's the one attached to the clutch pedal. See if it's leaking any fluid down the side -- I'm willing to bet it does. Note: He might have to remove the knee bolster panel to see it.

Good luck and let us know the outcome.

Brian