Hocky,
I am simply trying to inform you about the transmission. If you don't want to believe it, then fine.
But the 2nd gear hold is a VERY DELIBERATE design. I highly doubt that the 2nd gear hold at low coolant temps was an accidental "flaw." That is not very logical.

Every automaker has their own beneficial 'unique' features. This just happens to be one of them.

Thanks.

Hard shifting gearbox
 

David.
Thanks a lot for your great advice. Sorry to upset you Benz lovers, I am also one of you.

Cold shift delay is controlled by a solenoid valve with a green vacuum hose going to the transmission. (The red one is the economy/standard mode switching.

If you don't like the way it operates, pull the electrical conenction from the solenoid.

This applies to late model 124s with multi-valve engines and 722.4 transmission, probably C class also. Not sure about others.