Hello, I just purchased a 1981 240d with an automatic transmission. On the road it shifts smoothly with no noise. However when stationary and I move the gearshift thru each gear slowly there is an audible thunk. Not loud but it's there. Also when doing this the back of the car moves down a little as I move thru the gears. I doubt this is normal. Any help appreciated. It's also got a leaky trunk but that's another thread. Thanks,JEFF

Totaly normal Jeff. When the gear is slected it torques on the driveshaft, raising or lowering the rear of the car. It is completely normal. So is the noise. Ive owned three of these things and they all do this.

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1981 300SD 512k OM603

The noise can be normal but check the shift rod linkage to the trans there is a plastic gromment that goes bad and will make a noise but its more of a tinny click from outside of the car.

karsten

how many miles? thunk is just wear on shaft and diff especially if high in miles, and more especially how the PO drove the car.

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the sooner you start... the sooner you'll get done If it ain't broke, don't fix it.. Its always simpler to tell the truth...
2007 Honda Accord EX
2007 Honda Accord SE V6
96 C220
97 Explorer - Found Another Home
2000 Honda Accord V6 - Found Another Home
85 300D - Found Another Home
84 300D - Found Another Home
80 300TD - Found Another Home
Previous cars:
96 Caravan
87 Camry
84 Cressida
82 Vanagon
80 Fiesta
78 Nova
Ford Cortina
Opel Kadet
68 Kombi
Contessa

219,000 miles. Thanks for all the replies and help.