Originally Posted by Silver Boat

Just replaced the clutch on my 1980 W126 280SE. What a difference. It shifts so much better now. Either there was an extremely heavy duty clutch or it was over heated and the springs were "re-tempered" to be very stiff. I also have new tires on it (went on 25 miles before clutch blew) so that helps as well. Shifter is still lousy but I can see some new bushings on the rods will help a bit. Even with new bushings I do not think it will shift very well those rods are long and it feels like you are stirring pudding. But i am comparing to my Miata and that has one of the best feeling shifters of any car. Hope to be getting a digital camera soon or at least get some film developed so I can post some photos. It is not in great shape but fun to have a family truckster with a stick. Keeps the wife from driving it.