Hi, I have my 82 300SD and was just scared crapless at the price of a full set of brakes (rotors, pads, caliper rebuilds all the way around.) I got them from Rusty though, so that saved me some cash....

Anyhow, I have found a way to save my brakes, when coming to a stop sign, corner, etc, I let off the gas pedal at the same time as normal, then after I hit about 50 mph, I kick the shift lever from D to S and allow engine braking to slow me. I then lightly apply brake to peal off about 10 mph of speed from 40 to about 28-30. I then kick shift all the way to L and apply brakes, bringing myself to a nice stop, without using the brakes to drag myself down.

My question is, is this hard on my Tranny? I wouldn't think that the engine braking itself would be, but does the "manual" downshifting used to accomplish this feat detrimental to the tranny's health? If so, I wont do this anymore as brakes are free compared to transmission costs.


Thanks guys!

__________________
-Matt

EPA Section 609 Certified MVAC Technician
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Oil Burner Kartel Member #10

Ahh the smell of Diesel Fuel, it's like coffee in the morning!

My Car:

1982 300SD Turbo Diesel (231,500 miles!) RIP

1984 300SD Turbo Diesel Custom (235,500 mi on driveline.) - On Road!!

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