HELP...Transmission Problem
 

I recently experienced a failure in my transmission (130k miles). While driving in the DC/Maryland area my 400E would not go into reverse. All other gears worked fine, but I was parked in a head in only garage. After having the car towed to my local MB Dealer, I am now told that it is best to replace the tranny to the tune of $3000. Needless to say I was floored with this number and need some inputs from anyone who has had a simular occurence. I was also told that after the car sat for 8 plus hours the tech couldn't find any problems with the tranny.

All replies appreciated,


:confused:

It seems like you need to do a B2 piston search. The failure of the B2 piston in the trans is a common problem and some consider it's replacement maintenence. Saying you need a rebuild is a common response because of your mileage. I'm not a transmission expert only a neophyte, but I would have the trans pan removed and look for naughty bits in the pan bottom.

Re: HELP...Transmission Problem
 

So it works OK now? You have a tough situation here. I don't think there are any knowledgeable members here that can answer transmission questions. I have posted several and didn't get any replies. Who was the tech that couldn't find anything wrong? No names, just whether he was an indie or dealer tech.

Reply
 

Dealer tech. I picked up the car this morning and decided to try an indie with an excellent rep. He stated that if he replaced the tranny, it would cost me approx. $1700. But he recommends performing a service check first.

Brian

Smart move!
 

$1700 is almost too good to be true for a replacement if it includes labor. But if it is true I'd go for it!

Find yourself a steep hill and stop pointed down the hill. Place the tranny in reverse and back up the hill. Its almost certain that if the reverse clutches (no band problem for reverse in this tranny) are in failure the thing will slip and or chatter as the gas is applied.

If this is the case, repairs should be handled sooner than later. Seventeen hundred is a fair price to have your transmission rebuilt. I would advise having someone with rebuild experience do this rather than just a parts exchanger. There are lots of adjustment issues and any warrantee adjustments will obviously be better accomplished by those who can fix the internals.

Thanks Steve
 

I appreciate your advice. I have decided to use RC-Imports in Gaithersburg, MD. I know several MB owners that have used Rick to for engine and tranny repair. They all have only great things to say about his professionalism, price, and performance.

Brian

Sorry steve, but since I have been in MD I have never seen a steep hill. Guess I'd have to go to PA to test.

Brian;)