What's the deal? I can NOT find a Vac Amplifier
 

I have looked here at Fastlane first then I GOOGLED "vacuum amplifier" "genuine mecedes parts" "mercedes vac amplifier" NOTHING!? :eek:

Are these DEALERSHIP parts only? If they are, why are certain OEM parts available elsewhere besides MB dealer and others not?

I'm thinking mine is shot so was wanting to get an idea how much I need to figure on shelling out! Any and all replies are welcome - Thanks... :)

(It's in my sig!) '85 300Dt :)

What tests have you performed to conclude that the amplifier is "shot"?

What symptoms do you observe on the vehicle that lead you to conclude that the amplifier is "shot"?

First-second shifts are moderately hard when cold. When warm it shifts less hard but still firmer than it should.

The TRAN port on top of the unit seems to leak. I pulled the vac line out of the rubber connector and tried to apply suction (by mouth, I have yet to invest in a MityVac) and it was not holding a vacuum. What do you think? Need more diagnosis? What would you suggest I do to further my process of elimination? Thanks...

What I think is that you've performed no diagnosis on the system and have condemned the amplifier without any data.

You need a vacuum gauge or a Mityvac. The Mityvac is preferable because it can supply vacuum in addition to reading vacuum.

The gauge must be installed with a hose that it T'd into the output line to the transmission. The gauge itself must be routed into the cabin via the window. Then, you need to drive the vehicle and see what the gauge reads at idle, at 1/2 pedal around 2500 rpm and at full pedal over 3500 rpm.

With those three readings, we can then move forward with your problem.

Thank you sir for your help. I will see if I can pick up a mityvac and/or gauge sometime soon. I'm in no real hurry as the car is basically 'parked' for the winter weather. It will be driven from time to time when the roads are dry however. :)

As soon as I acquire said tools, I will then perform the prescribed diagnostic tests.

Please locate this thread and repost on it when you have the data.

If you cannot find it, you can search for threads started by you and it will appear.