I was looking at a friend's '83 300 TD with 287K miles. It runs well but the transmission sometimes clunks when shifting back into 1st gear. Is this a sign of a big problem or just the need for an adjustment or fluid change? Thanks in advance for your help and suggestions.

 

manual?

 

Sorry I did not mention that it is an automatic.

 

Its probably not the trans but the flex coupling joining the driveshaft to the trans. Mercedes uses a large rubber flex joint instead of a u-joint. Its secured with a series of bolts that pass thru it. Over time the rubber will deteriorate and allow slack causing clunks.

 

Thanks, carnut. This is helpful and reassuring.