My 83 sd just got an ATF transfusion and a new kidney (filter.)

Since the fluid / filter (273k,) the tranny has been flaring and I've determined that the modulator valve is leaking off. I'll replace the mod valve tomorrow or wednesday, but I've been looking into the Superior k722 spring kit.

The vacuum system is fine and leak-free before the modulator, and there has always been an occasional moderate to severe 3/4 flare since I got the car at 260k, but no slipping. Before the fluid / filter, the flare was corrected by vacuum adjustment, but said adjustment gave a significantly harsher 1/2 and 2/3 shift. This leads me to believe that the K springs have given up the ghost, so to speak.

Has anyone done the K spring replacements? I'm wondering if it is worth the time and fluid to change them, as I have no evidence that the clutches are gone. Since the tranny worked reasonable well at 260k and before the fluid/filter, I'm unsure wheter to do the spring kit if the modulator makes a significant change.

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83 300SD, Euro Delivery, Mesa Red, 275k, running strong & quick.

Stop Struggling and get free.

I'd replace the modulator (you know it's bad) first and adjust it before doing the springs. You may need to readjust the vacuum after you replace the modulator. Do that first, then adjust modulator, bowden cable. Spring set last.

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Charles
1983 300D, bought new, 215k+ miles, donated to Purple Hearts veterans charity but I have parts for sale: http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?t=296386

I can't even remember what forum I'm posting to. Too many parties in college, I think. Sorry for clogging things up...

Thanks, Charles.

That's definitely the order I want. I have nearly complete records for the car, and I'm friends with the euro mechanics who worked on it almost exclusively. There's no evidence that a spring kit or valve body service was ever done, so I just want to get as many opinions as I can.

I'm sure that the clutches are a bit worn. Do you think that I should reset the vacuum to 10-15 in Hg as specified by the manual, or replace and set the modulator first?

I don't have a TDM, so I'll have to find out what the proper modulator adjustment is, start there, then adjust it so it's suitably firm with the vacuum disconnected, right?

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83 300SD, Euro Delivery, Mesa Red, 275k, running strong & quick.

Stop Struggling and get free.