Good morning.
Over the weekend my 84 300SD transmission started acting up. 1-2 shift is fine, 2-3 shift is fine, 3-4, no 4!! I checked the fluid level and it was about 3/4 quart low and I added fluid, and after a bit of driving it finally started shifting fine again. Yesterday in the morning, same thing, but straightened out pretty quick. This morning, I couldn't get fourth at all..I know that 1-2 and 2-3 problems are usually adjustments, but what is likely when the 4th gear quits?? Is this the "B2 piston failure? When it is doing it, it goes straight into neutral...Acts almost like something is sticking because when it straightens out (if it does) it is back to normal...What should I look for? She has 191,000 miles...I know a trans is in my future anyway because the front seal leaks, and I don't want to put 600+ into a high mileage trans but if I can prevent spending 2500 right now that would be great..The local dealer quoted me a lower price for a rebuilt installed (22-2400)than my local benz shop who said about 2600. Any recommendations would be really great..I live in Austin TX by the way...John

I know where you are coming from. I have a '78 300SD which leaks tranny fluid. I have tolerated the leak for years (7+) now only because the tranny shifts so smooth. Over the past year, I have started to notice a little slip when shifting from 2nd to 3rd. Otherwise the tranny is perfect.

Going to change the fluid and filter to see if that helps... Any suggestions?

Don't know if this could be adjusted to minimize the problem or if it requires a complete rebuild. The tranny fluid smells good - not burnt.

Richard

'97 E300D
'78 300SD
'85 300D
'88 Lincoln
'00 Audi Avant