Tried finding this here in Vintage Benz section, but seraches didn't pull this q up;

I am wondering I'd there are any subtle adjustments to be made to my trans. It shifts at the following speeds when gently accelerating away from a stop, in D:

~3mph (seems like it shifts prior to 2 car lengths)
~18mph
~38mph

The first shift happens so quickly, I am wondering if it should be starting in second to begin with. The shifts aren't harsh per se, but I am wondering if they are happening too soon (at too low of a speed) or too late (at too high of a speed) for normal gentle city driving (By gentle driving, I mean that I don't drive the 108 like I drive my e34 BMW... That one gets more exercise, so to speak, but it is also 20 years newer).

I do know I have to check on the kickdown switch, as it does not do anything when the loud pedal is mashed, not sure if that is related to this.

Any suggestions are greatly appreciated.

These values appear normal, dependent upon throttle position,
are these shift points on level ground on a partial throttle?
That first to second is rather quick and necessary.
Does your motor have correct vacuum? compression, ignition timing?

Remember these are early generation(quasi-manual/auto) automatics and I usually teach drivers to be aware that they do not think as the newer transmissions do. Like around town, keep it in 3rd and allow a higher rev until up to speed. Don't shift into final until coasting on level ground at speed. Hook a vacuum gauge up for fun.

The 280SL floor shift cars are easy to get correct shifting techniques.
This motor is made for higher rpms to compensate for lower torque of the 2.8 liters.

What you describe does not indicate a problem. Here's a decent writeup on adjusting the transmission, although it is not 100% accurate for all cars (depends on year). Yes, your car will start in second unless either you press the gas down pretty far or have the selector in 2.
16 bolt installation and adjustment instructions

Awesome, thanks guys.

Just looking for some comparative results. It seems all good, but I wasn't sure if that first initial shift was "too soon".

This was on level ground, partial throttle, just easy "grandpa style driving" so as not to stress the car's components.

--pat.

Palolo,

My 280SE 3.5 Cabrio has that short up-shift from 1 - 2. It is normal...just takes a little getting used to. If you manually start in 2, the up-shift is a bit later. Give it a try!

__________________
All the best,

J. P. Mose
1968 250SL
1970 280SE 3.5 Cabrio
1987 560SL
1990 560SEL

Thanks JP. It is such a brief and quick shift that I was really wondering if the trans should have been starting in the higher gear, but as it is normal, I'll just enjoy it...

cheers,

pat