82 300DT - Need trans guidance?!
 

Thanks for looking in -- My son ran this 300 low on fluid, though I haven't found the leak yet? I had to add 4 quarts but the trans had already started slipping and lost reverse. It has no Low Gear or Reverse but will go slowly in Drive. I'd like to try and see if I can fix this but where to start? I see a wire leading to back of trans which is nearly sliced in two in several spots and using a voltage tester shows no sign of life? Is there a few things to try before opening up trans - I've read the B2 Bore is a common problem but is that a possibility to try in this situation? Any advice is greatly appreciated - I'm not ready to give up on this car quite yet! - (with the forums help!!)

sounds like the trans is toast, well the clutches are any way. I wouldnt bother trying to do anything with it, throwing money away!! Get a second hand trans & change it out.

What trans does the 82 300DT have and what other years and models will work for a swap? Is it possible or way to complex to open trans and replace clutches etc for a (transmission novice) DIYer? I was quoted 1700 on a rebuild, I've seen a used trans for 500 but of course that one could be just as bad as mine, wondering if opening it up and fixing it myself is worth a shot - I do have lots of tools and experience with other car repairs. Thanks.

An auto trans rebuild is not a DYI thing. After being run out of fluid one can never be sure the extent of the damage.
Many mechanics wont do them. You would need to find some one with Merc trans experience.
A good low mileage second hand one is the cheapest & easiest way forward. Hopefully others on here a bit closer to you may be able to help find a second hand one. You need to let people know where you are.
Best get a trans from the same model, for $500, you may get a complete car!! Some one may know where there is a car that has been hit in the side or the back.

Agreed.... Replace the thing with a "salvage trans." and thank your luck stars 100,000 miles later.

Maybe you will even get one that does not leak!:D

Thanks for the advice - I thought the trans might be too much to handle for my level of experience. Is taking out and replacing trans a do-able project for an intermediate DIYer with correct info etc? I was speaking to a trans shop and the guy said most used trans are ok but most people hook them up wrong - is it that complicated? I'm located near Charleston, SC if anyone has a trans for sale or advise where to find - Thanks again.

Not to discourage a DIY rebuild ( it certainly CAN be done), I don't think this one is likely to be a suitable candidate at this point. Best off buying a running but otherwise wasted car.....

Rick