Just wanted to share this finding with everyone on the forum.
Here is the link to my post about my Daughters 240D transmission problem findings.

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?postid=572462#post572462

The vacuum system in the car was in poor shape with old and deteriorated 3way, 4way and straight rubber conncetions. Also the front right door lock element was leaking. The vacuum pump needs a rebuild. Pulls about 15 in.HG ( should be more like 20) with the car running and I suspect is leaking, oil in the line.
When we purchased the car the tranny was shifting early and flairing 2-3 and 3-4. Very typical of a 1983 tranny with 150,000 and not rebuilt. So we negotiated the price based on a tranny rebuild.
He brought the car to a tranny shop who confirmed the diagnosis.
So the owner reduced the price by $750. The tranny shop offered a rebuilt for $1100 installed.
I wanted to fix the vacuum system prior to the new tranny instalation. Replace all the 3-4ways and rubber. Isolated the leaking door element. And the transmission is now acting normal.
Its drivability was confirmed by a Mercedes technician and a Mercedes Service Advisor that I trust, who also has a 240D.

SOOOOOO If you have shifting or other problems with your transmission. Make sure your vacuum system is up to speed FIRST. It could save you a lot of $$$$.

Dave

__________________
1970 220D, owned 1980-1990
1980 240D, owned 1990-1992
1982 300TD, owned 1992-1993
1986 300SDL, owned 1993-2004
1999 E300, owned 1999-2003
1982 300TD, 213,880mi, owned since Nov 18, 1991- Aug 4, 2010 SOLD
1988 560SL, 100,000mi, owned since 1995
1965 Mustang Fastback Mileage Unknown(My sons)
1983 240D, 176,000mi (My daughers) owned since 2004
2007 Honda Accord EX-L I4 auto, the new daily driver
1985 300D 264,000mi Son's new daily driver.(sold)
2008 Hyundai Tiberon. Daughters new car