I have a 1996 SL600 that is currently stuck in limp home mode. The engine will not rev above 3000 RPM. It is in limp home mode for 2 reasons that I am aware of:

1)Transmission is not programmed for the correct gear ratio
2) ESP system is completely disconnected.

My question; Is it any way damaging to drive this way? I would like to take this car to a show 25 miles away. I would also like to clear the limp home mode even temporarily if I can just for the show.

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John Roncallo

Any traction issue can cause transmission limp issues.

WHAT is the exact traction system code?

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I finally got a lap top where I can read this stuff.

From the ME, I have
0443 - Purge control Valve (It's not connected)
P1490 - ????
1163 - Oil Level (It's not connected)
and 1584 - Stop lamp (It's not connected)

From the EGS I have

008 - R/P lock solenoid valve defective (It's not connected)
104 - R/P lock solenoid valve defective (It's not connected)

P1490 I cannot Identify

This is essentially a 1996 SL600 with a 560SL body and rear end. The engine running and cutting out just above 3000 can be seen in this video. ESP components are not connected.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1jWTAlS9zr0

JR

__________________
To see my 129 parts for sale visit:
http://stores.ebay.com/The-Mercedes-SL-Store
John Roncallo

I don't see any code related to differential ratio.

The ME won't allow unloaded reving of the motor in any car. Since the controller doesn't know that the car is moving it probably applies that limitation always.

The trans also can't shift without speed input. The speed input is used as a governor would be in a mechanically controlled auto trans. The speed input in a SL600 would come from the traction control system and its wheel speed sensors.

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Steve Brotherton
Continental Imports
Gainesville FL
Bosch Master, ASE Master, L1
33 years MB technician

Thank you everyone.

I have come to the conclusion there is nothing wrong with this car. Its rev limited in park and neutral to 3800 RPM and my tach is about 500 rpm off. I do have front and rear wheel speed sensors connected and occasionally feel the trans shift in the short distance up the drive way. I think, as has been pointed out the gear ratio stuff is BS. The only thing this car need is wide open spaces.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oa4sHAzbSgw

__________________
To see my 129 parts for sale visit:
http://stores.ebay.com/The-Mercedes-SL-Store
John Roncallo