Just acquired an 86 300E with 257K miles and one enormous problem. Expecting the worst I didn't pay much for it.
When it's cold the automatic transmission will only shift as high as 3rd. When it's warm It will only shift into 2nd, and I have to accelerate to over 35 and back off on the pedal before that will happen. Trans fluid level looks good on the dip stick. The pressure cable is attached at both ends and seems properly adjusted. There's no engagement delay when I pull the lever into drive. The shifts are quick and secure when they do happen. Will I get lucky with a fluid and filter change? Are there any other things I should investigate? What's a fair price for a rebuild these days? Thanks!
Pete

Take it to someone that can test the transmission pressure, linkage and vacuum operation. May not need a rebuild.

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Jim

One quick thing to check:

There is a switch under the accel. pedal. Make sure it is normally open. If not, you have found one of your main problems.

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Benzmac:
Donnie Drummonds
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 11 YRS

I'm just checking if you are aware that some MB 4 speed automatics start in 2nd gear unless you really punch it. If you are counting stifts from a normal slow start there should be one as it goes into 3rd then another as it goes into 4th.

There is a switch under the accel. pedal. Make sure it is normally open. If not, you have found one of your main problems. [/B][/QUOTE]

You were right! Thanks so much! The kickdown switch was so stuck I had to pry it up with a screwdriver. Now it shifts smoothly as intended. I'm going to get a new switch first thing.