1981 380SE Transmission Problem

I have a problem with the transmission of my 1981 380SE. Transmission type 722.3.

The car starts in 1st (which is a surprise to me) and changes into 2nd at 5-10mph. All gear changes are fine except 2-3. When accelerating gently the change is ok-ish. But when I accelerate harder, the box flares and gives the impression of slipping into neutral. It will not engage 3rd unless I stop pressing the accelerator and let the car glide along for a bit to slow down a little. 3-4 change is fine.

The fluid and filter have been changed as per manual and the level is correct.
The fluid which came out was not new but didn't look too bad. There were no pieces in the pan.

I've read about the B2 piston in these transmission types. Could I be experiencing a failure of the B2 piston here?

Thanks,
Adam

Adam,

I ran across your post while doing a search on "transmission". Your problem sounds a lot like mine. I have an 82 380SL with 136K. Until my car warms up it wants to slip/rev between the shift from 2 to 3. Once the transmission and engine reach operating temperature it shifts precisely as it should. Do you notice that yours improves once operating temperature is reached?

Randy
Hamilton, Ohio

Hi Randy,

No, the shifting problem on mine did not improve with time as the engine warmed up. It looks like there was a failure with some internal valve or maybe a blockage. But more likely something controlling the shifting was broken. If it was clutches, I'd have had problems in all gears I believe.

Anyway, the cost of repair lead me to sell this car. I no longer own the 380.

Good luck with your repairs.

Adam