1978 280ce won't shift into 4th

[Paul LeFevre]

Just started working on my 78 ce with 136,000 miles and I think it is not going into 4th gear. Gets lousy gas mileage and seems to be turning higher revs than it should. It has no tach so it's just a guess on my part. I did a quick search and found one post that I will check out for results.
My first thought is it is incorrect rod adjustment for shifter or maybe the kick down switch.
I need to press this car into service for a week or so and would appreciate the help. Thanks in advance, Paul.

[Frank Reiner]

Originally Posted by Paul LeFevre

Just started working on my 78 ce with 136,000 miles and I think it is not going into 4th gear.

That trans (722.1xx), although a 4-speed, normally starts in 2nd. Consequently, only two shifts will be felt. If "L" is selected from a start, and the trans manually shifted, three shifts should be felt. A stuck KD switch would result in three shifts, all at max RPM, and all quite harsh.

[Paul LeFevre]

I agree that it should start in 2nd. If 1st gear is selected I agree it will start in 1st. I took it for a 6 mile test drive last night and got back and could barely hold the dip stick, it was so hot. I know that it is over filled and have new fluid and filter for service this weekend. The shifter is very sloppy and does not line up with the proper position of the gear selected and will be addressing that as well. I have a Haynes manual with some direction for proper adjustment. Thanks, Frank.

[gear-head]

Seemed like mine too wouldn't go into 4th, poor fuel mileage, high rev's. Figured out, it is going in to 4th. Poor fuel economy seems to be the norm, seems that, perhaps the best one might manage, after thoroughly sorting all vacuum leaks and F.I. issues, is perhaps 24-25 mpg's. I'd be pretty happy to get that out of mine at this point. Seems to me the car is geared too low.