High rpm shifting (after full throttle)

[moruzzi]

My trusty 1984 300SD (320Kmi) just developed a shifting problem. It had been shifting normally - under part throttle the shifts were smooth. After a short full throttle start it developed a hard shift and only at high rpm. The first to second shift occurs at aboout 3000 rpm and the 2-3 shift occurs at about 4400rpm, Ive only had it on back roades but its not making the 3-4 shift even crusing under almost no load at aboout 45mph.

The trans flud is OK (not burnt or anything and in the acceptable range when idling after a warm up) at the lower end of the OK range. I'm assuming I have a vacuum leak possibly initiated by the full throttle segment. I'll get under the car and check the vacume actuator at the trans (I believe thats where it is). What are the best points to check the vacuum system. Looks like its time to get a mity vac...

I did search the archives and got useful info on the bowden cable (I dont think its that unless it is now not fully retracting - I'll check), vacuum actuator etc.

Just looking for any more specifics before I dive in.

Thanks
Paul Moruzzi

[moruzzi]

Figured it out without doing much checking of the vacume system. Turned out to be a broken/stuck kickdown switch. Have one on order from the dealer (about $12).

Speaking of which has mercedes changed any of their parts pricing? The usual suspects (including fastlane) list this part at about $14 this is the first time this dealer has been lower cost (they usually are a bit more than what list is supposed to be).

Paul