Hi... new to the forum.

Just acquired a beautiful 1987 420SEL (148K miles). The car is very nice inside and out, and it's obviously been cared for by the previous owner(s). One thing I've noticed is that when I'm traveling at slower speeds (in city driving), there's a slight "rev" (increased RPMs - approx 250-500) in between shifts - only between 1st and 2nd gear. Doesn't happen during any other up or down shifts. And it doesn't occur when I'm accelerating harder (like on a freeway on-ramp). Also, the "slip" is less frequent and less pronounced when the engine & tranny's had a good chance to warm up. Any ideas?

Unfortunately, I do not have any past service records for the car, so I don't know if the timing chain / guide rails / tensioner have been replaced since the car was new. I'm aware this is a problem area for these V8 engines, and I'd really like to know if I need to have this work done. Is there any way I can tell if this work's been done without ripping apart the engine? I suppose I should bring it to a MB-knowlegeable mechanic, but I thought there'd be a way to tell myself. Any suggestions?

Also, one more thing... I need to put a new set of tires on the car, but I don't want to spend a fortune. I only drive about 4,000 miles a year (city/highway combo) - and live in Seattle - so there's no snow (maybe once a year). Any suggestions for some moderately priced tires appropriate for this older 'S' Class?

Looking forward to insight and suggestions on the forum... and babying my new Benz!

 

I'd get your car to a transmission specialist ASAP! I had that problem in my 500SE and then lost 2nd gear completely! I did eventually get it looked at and was told I needed a new transmission. Mine one was from 2nd to 3rd though, is yours it really from 1st to 2nd gear? These cars start off in 2nd gear unless u floor it, so if its starting from 1st gear all the time theres probably a additional problem somewhere.

I dont think any problem with the engine could cause the problem.

 

HI, My '86 did this, mostly when cold, when I bought it from original owner two years ago; after worrying about it for a while, I changed fluid and filter, and it has not done it a single time since. In some posts I have read, this behavior is called "flare".Hope this helps you.