1983 300SD 280000 mi has soft 3d and 4th gear shifts as is not uncommon, but I think I would like it better if it shifted into 4th gear about 10 mph faster than it does. Can I adjust this? Can I make the shifts crisper at any speed?

I have a similar complaint with my SD, except that it feels like it shifts into 4th too EARLY most of the time, and puts the engine into too low an RPM range for good acceleration, especially uphill...Seems to do this regardless of throttle position.

...Maybe a new vacuum actuator would solve our problems?...

Hopefully one or more of our resident MB gurus will chime in and help us out on this one.

Mike

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1979 300 SD
350,000 miles
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1982 300D-gone---sold to a buddy
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1985 300TD
270,000 miles
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1994 E320
not my favorite, but the wife wanted it

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I have learned from experience that the first thing to look for with bad shifting behavior (particularly with diesels) is the restriction in the vacuum lines up by the master cylinder. If memory serves correctly, the narrow plastic lines get clogged with hardened oil deposits especially in the vicinity of vacuum line connectors. This restriction can usually be corrected with a small drill bit - however, more importantly, the reason for the deposits should not be overlooked - leakey vacuum pump seal or partially perforated diaphram. In the past, I've seen evidence of novice mechanics adjusting the vacuum modulator set screw to compensate for 'pounding' shifts. This only makes matters worse - tending to wipe out clutches rapidly.

I just bought a 1987 300D with 155k and am now reminded of why I got involved with Benz in the first place. Does anyone have a line on a good set of service manuals (CD?) for this car? I sold all my books (for peanuts- duh) when I closed the shop and moved to Maine. I need to diagnose/correct a climate control issue.

1987 Volvo 740GLE (348k and going strong!)
1989 735i (103k)
1985 Jetta TDI

the other thing to look at is the bowden(SP?) cable, it is attached the the throttle linkage on these cars, and tells the tranny where your pedal is "at". It should have a white(or blue) screw, and it is located on top of the valve cover near the back. I beleive if you turn it out it will harden shifts, and if you turn it in it will loosen them. Use very small incriments, as they do make a differance.
hope this helps,
Ryan

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83 300SD.......sold
96 integra SE....sold
99 a4 quattro....sold
2001 IS300.......sold
2002 330i.........current.
2004 highlander limited....current.