New ZF S5-20 transmission: reviews/experiences?

[LakisAkylas]

I was wondering if there are any reviews/experiences from those who ordered, received and fitted the new ZF S5-20 5 speed transmission.  Thanks.

Lakis Akylas

1971 280 SL, DB172 anthracite, gray MB tex, 4 speed

[kizilsakal]

Hi

I have ordered the S5-20, it took about 3 years for ZF to send me the transmission. but it was only a month after I destroyed my old transmission so it can be said that it was right on time
The installation was not much of a problem. the drive shaft and the gear selector linkages had to be modified, but it was in in 2 days.
I have to say the 4 speed was smoother in gear changes this one is not smooth at all. I don't know if it is a problem with the linkage or the transmission itself (syncros in the transmission to be precise)
Also I have to say, it is getting smoother in time. Maybe the old transmission was worn out and that's why it was so smooth.
I participate in Regularity rallying, and travel quiet some distance in those also I use this car as a daily driver most of the time too.
I think these cars do need the 5th gear. I used to get to the end of the rev range on highways with the 4 speed and the car still seem like it had power. (speed limits are not very strict on some roads in Turkey)
I am not sure if it is this 5 speed or another one. But i wanted it to be a correct part for the car.
it does make a difference, specially on long trips and highways. Also when the top is down you can cruise at low engine rpm and listen to the deep exhaust sound instead of the mechanical sound of the fuel pump in the front with high rpm.

[Rick]

I just installed one of these.  I have not driven it much yet but so far, it performs well.   These cars do need an overdrive as they are geared too low.  The USA version cars are the worst because they put a lower ratio rear end in them (4.09?) as compared to the Euro models, to make up for the USA emission rules and the lower  horsepower.  The 130 six cylinder engines often run 200,000 miles when they are installed in the sedan cars but often only last 90 or 95,000 miles in the W113.  I believe they spin too fast for too long in the W113 and this results in a shorter engine life. The price is high for this conversion.  There is a bolt-on 6 speed out there for half the price.  How has that been working out?   I also understand that it is possible to convert from automatic to the six speed and they have the parts to do so.  An interesting option - -

[garymand]

what info do you have on the 6 speed?

[Rick]

I know nothing about the installer or results. An outfit in Texas does these.  http://www.ebay.com/itm/161318538044?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

[billhon]

While in Austin in June I met with the gentleman who imports the gertag 6 speed. He sells it with a conversion kit for about $6500 I think. He took me for a test ride in a 230sl. It seems great to me. It's smooth and quiet. I am not a mechanic of any sort so cannot offer any technical advice. His name is Martin. I think his number is 503.781.5255. The only questionable part of the long test ride was that on strong acceleration it popped out of 2nd gear once. He also has a conversation kit for automatics. If anyone calls him let him know I posted this info please.

[ClassicFarm]

Hi,

This is Martin, who billhon referenced in the previous post. Thanks, Bill, for posting a review of the ride you took in the 1964 230SL with the 6-speed conversion kit installed. When you noticed the transmission pop out of 2nd gear it was because I hit the shift stick too early. We have had excellent experiences with this conversion kit and are able to provide conversions from automatic for an extra $1000. Please contact me with any questions. 503.781.5255.

Thanks!
Martin

[mbzse]

Gentlemen,
As this discussion now has gone severely off-topic in relevance to ZF gearboxes and original W113 SL cars, I suggest you start a new thread in the "Research and Development" section!
/Hans in Sweden