I test drove an 85 300SD for about 5 miles to experience average performance for all but one case of acceleration from a full stop. The one occurrance accellerated powerfully and with very little pedal. Tried to duplicate, could not.
Questions: How do you know if the turbo is "kicking in" or assisting?
Is is assisting all of the time or does something regulate the boost?
Is the turbo effect even noticible at low speeds?
I'm wondering that the car may be taking off in second gear most of the time.

There is a cable hanging down on the drivers side of the transmissinon that resembles a Delco-remy type side terminal battery connector. It has two wires molded into it that are jumpered out. Does this have any effect on shifting, or is it just a neutral safety switch cable?

Any advise on a good repair manual that explains the various systems functionality? I have seen some CDs on the net, but have had poor luck finding good ones.

Thanks for any expertise offered.
John.

The turbo can be "felt" at about 2000rpm and up. At lower speeds, it is barely noticable, if at all. A diesel accelerates differently than a gasoline engine and is best described as a strong pull throughout the rpm range rather than an off-the-line surge.

Do a search on this forum for "repair CD" as I believe MBCA has gone to a download version for the W126 and does not mail them anymore. (You will need DSL or better)

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Sam

84 300SD 350K+ miles ( Blue Belle )

Try dropping your shifter into L when yu take off and see if any improvement.this car is a 2nd gear takeoff to keep the car from "creeping"at stoplights but should shift down automatically when you release the brake

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michael cole 1980 300SD gone now but not forgotten,87tdt,90 300te 4matic 95 e320 wagon