When I shift into reverse (350SDL at 129K miles), it lags and unless I wait
a few seconds, it jerks and screeches backwards. Recent advice says the
trans is going and needs a rebuild. I recently had the fluid and filter changed
after 60K miles--know it's a little late. Any advice?

 

i would check the trans fluid level.

 

Thanks, I did that--checked the trans fluid level and, as I said, just had the filter and fluid changed about a month ago at twice the recommended interval though.

 

yes rebuild time i do 40 a year at least ...the rev disc all ways go first sometimes it breaks the tit off the rev piston too...

 

Thanks MB/Techman--Trans should be reinstalled this week--had it rebuilt in Houston through a friend/MB Parts Mans by his "Trans Guru" for $2G. Lowest independent MB garage quoted $4G. Now, what can you tell me about the 350SDL engine that I'm reading some very alarming posts here. I'm confused. Is high oil cosumption a result of cylinder connecting rods or valve push rods? At 127K, my '91 isn't burning any significant amount of oil between oil changes but at 3K, it's sometimes down a quart depending upon driving conditions since last change.

 

Just picked up my car with rebuilt trans and it rides great so far--and while he was under there, he replaced the steering damper for 40 bucks. Total bill was $2042. My next project is to do something proactively about the engine which from all accounts here is a time bomb. At 124K it's running great but should I have it rebuilt or just replace the connecting rods and bearings? We called MB and my car does not have the updated version of engine.