Pagoda SL Group

W113 Pagoda SL Group => Drive train, fuel, suspension, steering & brakes => Topic started by: awolff280sl on August 06, 2008, 10:13:04

Title: Bell housing/transmission differences?
Post by: awolff280sl on August 06, 2008, 10:13:04
I am looking to eventually redo or replace the 4-speed transmission in my '69 280sl. I may be able to get a used transmission out of a 230sl or 250sl to work on with the intention of ultimately swapping it in for what's there now. I have heard that there may be a diffence in the bell housing across the model years. Is this true? Are there any diffences in 4-speed transmissions &/or bell housings across the model years? Thanks.
Title: Re: Bell housing/transmission differences?
Post by: ja17 on August 06, 2008, 19:30:14
Hello Andy,

There are some differences depending on the model year. They are not insurmountable. Even the clutch assembly changed near the end of production. Most differences are merely bolt up items. The basic gear boxes themselves are identical on the outside. All items like the bell housing, front cover, rear cover, and top cover will unbolt and interchange. Even sedan gear boxes will interchange simply by unbolting items off  your original gear box. Internal gearing of the sedans is different at least first gear as I recal, but it will work in a pinch or you can switch the gears also to make it as original.
Title: Re: Bell housing/transmission differences?
Post by: Benz Dr. on August 07, 2008, 18:08:08
The gear boxes are different on 230 and 280 SL's. So are the bell housings although you can switch some parts if you know how to do it. Top and rear covers are basically the same.
Title: Re: Bell housing/transmission differences?
Post by: awolff280sl on August 07, 2008, 18:58:03
Dan, Are 250 and 280 gearboxes the same?
Title: Re: Bell housing/transmission differences?
Post by: Benz Dr. on August 08, 2008, 14:29:52
I don't think so.