PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum - View Single Post

Stevels · #1 11-28-2005, 09:58 PM

Hi Wise Men,

I need some strength and guidence with a sucky problem! I have a 1991 350 SDL in wonderful condition - except that it suddenly has the following symptoms:

1) Transmission shifts hard in all gears. Sounds and feels terrible, like I need a new Tranny - makes me not want to even drive it for fear of breaking it worse.
2) My ventilation system works, except that the air only comes out the defroster outlet, not any of the other vents.
3) The passanger vent blows only cold air, even when the heater is on full.
4) When tunring off the ignition, the car sounds ever so slightly like it is "Dieseling". In other words, it does not turn off as quickly as it used to, and seems to sputer for a revolution or two more than I remember.

But... my power brakes AND my power locks seem fine.

I am thinking - vacuum leak? right?

I am awaiting a "MityVac", which I am hoping will help me diagnose the problem, but I am hoping that someone may recognize these symptoms and point me in a place to look. I think there is at least some suction coming from the vacuum pump oin the front of the engine. Best I can tell, if I pull off the little line (not the one to the power brakes) I can actually feel a little sucking on my finger. (oooh yeah!! cheap thrills!) I am assuming that the "Vacuum Pump" is this the only source of vacuum on this Diesel engine? Is this MityVac the right tool for troubleshooting and fixing this issue?

Unfortuanatly, I have not a clue how to troubleshoot past this point. I looked for obvious signs of brokenness or disconnect in the vacuum lines, but can not seem to see anything obvious.

With all these vacuum systems failing - less the brakes and power locks - where would I even begin to look?

PLease advise of guru's of the Benz.

This car is a very special one, being my Vegetable Car and all. Any advice, pictures, diagrams or Glossy Photos will be appreciated.

Thank you!

Stevels