1981 300SD transmission stuck in L
 

I had my transmission rebuilt within the past 12 months. Haven't put many miles on it since. Last night it wouldn't shift out of L. I can put it in reverse and L but that is it. Could this be (fingers crossed) an adjustment issue that the guy who rebuilt it ($1800) should do as part of the rebuild? Any more $ into this car isn't worth it. It has 300k -I've had the engine rebuilt, front end all redone, transmission rebuilt. In the last 2 years I've put $5000 into repairs. Of course, that is after the $$$ for the rebuilt engine. Anyway, I digress. Any input on the transmission would be very much appreciated. I haven't called him yet-his shop is @ 40 miles away so car has to be towed. :(

RE: 1981 300SD transmission stuck in L
 

:eek:why dont you go to the local shop for a check up is the linkgauge stuck or min problem before towing....
sound little rare of you dont drive much....

try to shut the engine off and see you can shift it back to normal....

RE: 1981 300SD transmission stuck in L
 

Thanks. Unfortunately, I live in a really small town and the only mechanic I used retired. That's why I had to use one "down the hill." However, since he was the one that rebuilt the transmission I figured I should take it back, hoping it might be 'free' if just a minor problem. Today I moved it from one spot to another and I couldn't get it to move forward in 'L' but it did in 'D.' Weird. Had it towed. Should know more tomorrow. :eek:

RE: 1981 300SD transmission stuck in L
 

does it reverse if you put the shift lever in "R"?

if it does, then it's just the linkage problem. after that it will go to the valve body control valve, and seems impossible to get stuck.

tell me some more details and you will be able to drive.