1984 300SD transmission problem
 

I'm hoping someone can help me salvage my transmission (1984 300SD) with some wisdom on how to fix the problem I'm having: When I start the car in the morning, the transmission shifts fine. After the car has been driving a while, I begin to lose the ability to shift into the higher gears - first 4th, then 3rd, then 2nd, and as soon as I let up on the fuel pedal, the trans wants to abruptly shift into a lower gear. I'm thinking that perhaps there is a pressure issue, where pressure is building up over time with some relief outlet damaged or clogged. The factor other than timethat changes while driving is heat, but I don't know how that would cause this problem. The fluid level is right, the vacuum system seems to working OK, and the kick down solenoid seems to be working OK. Someone suggested it might be clogged governor screens, but I have no idea where they are nor how to get at them. Are there any manuals or books on these transmissions? Thanks for your help - Steven

RE: 1984 300SD transmission problem
 

I think about 2 years ago (probably under 1000 miles), but I'm going to change filter and fluid in the next couple weeks so I know its been done. Still looking for some kind of manual that explains this transmission, and any reference to "governor screens" - Steven

RE: 1984 300SD transmission problem
 

I have a problem that is similar this on a 1983 model and am hoping that somebody can give me some friendly advice. Basicaly, my car's transmission seems to work well when I am at cruising speed. However, when I come to a complete stop, my transmission slips severely, I have go very lightly On the accelarator until vehicle begins to roll. Oddly enough, once I get back to speed again it works just fine.

Requesting assistance on this problem

RE: 1984 300SD transmission problem
 

BSavage34 - your problem is different. Yours sounds like the B2 piston. The originals were crap and broke in half. You can buy a new updated one from your MB dealer for about $150 or $180. It's a 2-3 hour job to change it.

Did you check the kickdown switch behind the accelerator pedal?? Many people that I talk to about trans problems always ask that question.

does anybody have a good source to get the b2 piston

Here is the Mercedes Part Numbers

B2 Piston Seal and related parts
B2 piston number 107 270 04 32 (1702700432)

Outer Cover O-ring 005 997 70 48

plastic bushing 126 277 08 50

Lip Seal 006 997 73 47

Note that the cost of the B2 Piston varies a lot from seller to seller.