unusual trans problem '81 380sl
 

Car will not move from a stop when I put it in gear. I can feel it wanting to move when I feather the accellerator, then with a push (still feathering the throttle) it gets going and drives like nothing is wrong. It upshifts and downshifts nicely. But come to a stop and it starts all over again. It goes into reverse just fine.
All this started when I had to accelerate (from a dead stop) rather hard. There was a kinda thud and jolt like someone had gently hit the bumper but the car kept going - until I stopped at a light...
I was told I need a whole new/rebuilt trans, that the gears were gone.
What?! Then, how is it that once I get moving you wouldn't know anything was wrong? They had no answer.

how many miles on the tranny?

ANSWER!
 

Sounds like you need a total trans service. Meaning the foillowing: Go to a person who you trust and will do exactly what you ask- 1. Buy the trans filter and gasket kit from a good MB parts place (email me if you need a reputable one) and then 2. Ask the shop if they are able to drain the tourque converter - I mean empty... then replace the filter and you should be good to go. Exactly same thing happened to my 75 450 SL and after a heart attack for a trans job, a good MB friend told me the secret. cost should be with parts 200.00. Worth the try. And I bet it will do the fix. Good luck! :rolleyes:

there was a prob with one of the band solenoids on those early 6 bolt pan tranies.it activates second gear hence the push will get it going.job can be done without removing trans.