On my 89 420,

Out on the road at speed if I floor the gas it just won't go into passing gear, or downshift. The carpet is not bunched up around the switch or anything, I can hear the switch click quite clearly. I did some diagnosis which I learned on my 450SL but am not sure if it applies to the 420SEL. Ignition on, engine off, depress the accelerator fully and listened for the downshift solenoid click, never heard it. Checked for voltage at the downshift switch harness and found none at either pin, the solenoid is supplied by a simple 12 volts, correct?

Need some help please, the 420 is not exactly a speed demon and without a passing gear it is much worse.

A certain Lexus GS400 is calling,,, did I say that??

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Chas

Had a 380SL, 450SL, 380SEL, 420SEL, 500SEL

Got a Euro 500SEC right now.

Just out of curiousity;

When was the last time the trans fluid and filter were changed..?

Old gnarly fluid will not allow a transmission to shift up/down properly...

Only trying to help, thanks.

Tranny has been freshly overhauled by a friend of a friend who works for that tranny shop that the Marcus Welby younger guy who is now married to Barbara Streisand has been plugging, (plugging the tranny store, not Babs)

I really just need a few tips on what to check as far as the downshift solenoid goes. If I remember correctly it is supposed to click down on the tranny when the throttle is fully depressed. It is plugged in and all.

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Chas

Had a 380SL, 450SL, 380SEL, 420SEL, 500SEL

Got a Euro 500SEC right now.

I remember reading somewhere on this site about proper kickdown adjustments and checks...

I apologize, but I am more familiar with the modulator valve checks and adjustments...

Thanks.