Hey Everyone...

Quick question. I don't know but I don't think this is normal. Gotta 92 400E, when I go from "park" to "drive" or "reverse", it seems like it takes a few seconds for it to go in gear. Or if I pull it out of "park", put it in "drive" and give it gas, it'll jerk goin into gear. I've read something about a "piston" problem common on this car in the transmission. Does anyone know what I'm talking about or ever seen this on their 400? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!!!

peter b

also on the 400E tranny...
 

oh i forgot, also, if ive been driving, then put into park (especially on an incline), it will roll a foot or two before it locks up. is this common? thanx again!

pb

Have you checked the transmission fluid level?

Good luck,

tranny fluid level is fine

Have you had the fluid changed recently or at all?

The Fluid could be old and its composition might not be lubricating as much as before.

The problem you describe sounds like a fluid problem.

I've had many automatics, and everytime the tranny acted up, it either needed fluid or a fluid change.

Also do you come to a complete stop before you shift to drive, and do you also give it a sec before you hit the gas?

It sounds to me like a transmission slip problem, which is usually fluid related.

Though I have noticed some ford trucks can take 20 seconds to switch from reverse to drive. my car doesn't move more than a few inches when I put it in park on a hill, though if I'm on a hill I always set the parking brake.

If you have no idea when the fluid was last changed, you might want to have it and the filter changed.

Hope that helps.

Alon

P.S. I'm not a tech, just another enthusiast who loves all benzes. :) hehe

There is a service bulletin on this subject. Only a very knowledgeable trans technician should be trusted to make this repair. Service & fluid level have nothing to do with this problem, faulty design of original parts is the problem!

is this only for '92? i have a 94 E420. i don't have this tranny problem but if there is a recall of some sort, i would rather bring it in now than later.

thanks

M.B. DOC,

So can you provide any details on the Service Bulletin? A reference number or some details on what part is faulty?

I have a 1992 400e that is also having the EXACT problem with my trans. I have flushed the ATF multiple times, including the converter, no difference.

I love my 400e, but it seems like there is always a little something wrong with it.

Just a few months ago, my engine wiring harness finally went out. Now I am having my PS serviced to fix the leak in the hose. Will have my belt tensioner replaced at the same time too.

Hopefully that will cover the "must do" items, then I can focus on the "want to do" stuff. :-)

Thanks!

-David

I was wondering if the 500E's transmission is also subject to the same faulty design?

Wasn't a faulty designed trans, but a seal that couldn't take the pressure. Also an updated adjustment value. If those items don't completely fix the problem there is a mod to the valve body. This is a complex repair!! but I will fax info if given a # to send it.
Also all 722.3/4/5 transmissions can be affected. In laymans words that includes most cars from 1986!

I just had to say, "mine too"!!!
1991 300D 2.5

your opinion
 

M.B.Doc;

Would it be more cost effective to just swap out the transmission OR do the repair?

Piston problem is known as the B-2 piston problem. Symptoms are a "whump" from the rear when starting off when cold. I have seen posts that say that it can be repaired in the car. This does not sound like your problem.

Sounds like you need a good mechanic to assess your issue.

Jack
93 400e

My '92 400E operates similarly. I have received consistant advice with respect to fluid level, quality and age.
I must say however, the "whump" in the rear caused bythe B-2 piston problem concerns me. What exactly is "whump" ?
I have noticed in cold temps when I begin my accent up my street that I get a fairly significant "thud or clunk" from the rear...Is that it ? What about the seal repair that helps minimize the slow shift responses? Are these items that should be handled at one service since I assume both require the tranny to be removed?

thx

That does sound like what I have heard described as the b-2, but I am no expert, since I have not had it (yet).

Go to this page and search for b-2:

http://www.mercedes.cx/archives/mq.html

and you will know more than you ever wanted to. Well, more than the average car owner, anyway!

Good luck. Aren't these great cars? Man, get on the highway after a long day, open the roof, turn up the stereo, and whoosh! Jet Mercedes, coming through!