late shifting '71 280SE

[Larry Delor]

Howdy y'all!

Well here goes my first question regarding my new to me 280SE. I have noticed (well beyond a reasonable doubt), that the trans shifts rather late into its next gear. This is not quite so pronounced after it is thoroughly warmed up, but still evident. I have not inspected the trans thoroughly to see if there are vacuum lines that go to it like on my 300D...if there are, I will inspect thoroughly. However if there are not, do you suppose a new trans filter would be worth a try? I have no idea when the last trans service was done...it may have been quite sometime. Also, does this model trans always start in first? (for me it does, although it doesn't hang out there for very long)
Thanks for you time!
-Larry

(The radio, although working, is rather crackly...would you suggest tuner cleaner?)

[Mark DiSilvestro]

Hello Larry,
I own 2 1972 Benzes with 2.8-carb and automatic trans. A 250 sedan and 250 coupe. I drive the sedan all the time and, from a complete stop, it always starts in first gear. This has not been a problem for me, although I'm told that many Mercedes automatics start out in second gear unless the gas is floored or lever is moved to a lower gear. There is a metal vacuum line down the right-rear of the engine
to the transmission modulator valve
(I assume your 280SE is the 2.8 six
and not the V8) If the modulator is OK
and not leaking/sending trans fluid up the line, you should have a control rod between the trans and the throttle linkage under the intake/exhaust manifolds. My 250 has an adjustment at this throttle linkage and this can affect early or late trans shifting.
Also, if the points are worn in your distributor, causing late ignition timing or timing is retarded, this can also cause late shifting. Hope this helps.
Good Luck, Mark DiSilvestro

[Larry Delor]

I will look for the metal line, and check to see what kind of linkage that I can find that goes to the trans.
I do not not suspect the ignition, (at least not yet) as all of that was recently replaced, and appears to be in good working order.

Do you own a DKW? I haven't seen one of those in years! :p

-Larry

[Mark DiSilvestro]

Hello Larry
Yes, I own 2 DKWs. A 1964 F12 roadster ( basket case, my brother calls it 'The Clown Car') and a nice
original 1957 3=6 Panoramic Coupe
(my brother calls it the 'Mutant Volkswagen').
I mentioned points and timing because
even minor adjustments on my car make a difference on my trans shifts.
Good Luck
Mark DiSilvestro