HELP! '83 240D auto transmission feels like a standard
 

If anyone can help me...my 83 240 D is an automatic tranny with 121K and it won't shift unless I let off the gas each time. It is worse when I tromp on it, but is still bad when easing into it. It feels like I have a standard, without a clutch. It has been suggested to me that it's a vacuum problem. I have NO IDEA about the vacuum system, and I don't want to get taken at the garage. I was thinking about replacing the tranny but don't want to if it can be fixed cheaper. I have already changed the filter and tranny fluid. Any help or suggestion would be appreciated.

Hey Chris, got your emails...It's most likely a vacuum problem if it is not slipping in any of the gears. On top of the motor under a black cover there should be a white plastic switch with a cluster of vacuum hoses coming out of it. My car was giving me whiplash shifting from first to second and also down into first when slowing down. This valve was the cure. It cost about $72 for the part. I didn't know this at the time so I took it to a mechanic who gave me a fair deal although he may have made some other adjustments. You might also do a search and see what you come up with as this topic has been discussed in thorough detail at different times on these threads. Possibly the transmission module? Another easy fix.