I recently purchased a 1983 300SD with a transmission that would not engage into any forward gears but would go into reverse. After doing some research, it sounded like a problem with the B-2 piston. So I took it out and it unfortunatly was intact. The transmission apperars to have the original aluminum sleeve. I am going to install a new plastic sleeve but I cannot figure out how to remove the original one. In addition to replacing the sleeve, should I install the upgraded piston to avoid future issues?

if you change the sleeve, you HAVE to change the piston. they are different sizes.

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John HAUL AWAY, OR CRUSHED CARS!!! HELP ME keep the cars out of the crusher! A/C Thread
"as I ride with my a/c on... I have fond memories of sweaty oily saturdays and spewing R12 into the air. THANKS for all you do!

My drivers:
1987 190D 2.5Turbo
1987 190D 2.5Turbo
1987 190D 2.5-5SPEED!!!

1987 300TD
1987 300TD
1994GMC 2500 6.5Turbo truck... I had to put the ladder somewhere!

The sleeve comes right out after you get the seal out. Its a bit tricky getting the seal out but just takes some patients.
Replace the piston, sleeve and seal. Its much easier with the trans out but doable with it in also.

I will order the parts tonight.
Thanks,
Nick

You might need to build a puller, mine was really stuck. I ended up using a fender washer that I ground two sides flat on so I could slide it in.

I just wonder if the B-2 piston is actually the problem, since you said it was still intact?

The piston is worn pretty bad where it contacts the sleeve. I am hoping that it is binding. The car seems like it is trying to go forward when in drive.