Automatic transmission query

[Paul99]

My 230SL Automatic runs and changes perfectly. One strange thing is if I don't drive the car for some time, especially having been laid up in the winter, when I start the car and put it into gear, nothing happens for a few seconds, and then slowly the car starts to move.  Once warm, and if used each day its perfect again. Almost as if the oil in the gearbox is somehow draining away, and only returns once the car is put into gear. 

Oil level (checked when hot and engine running) is fine, if anything slightly too much oil.   Hasn't been changed for about 4k miles.

Not a real issue, but hopefully isn't signs of a bigger issue to come?   

Any ideas? Is there an easy fix?  (although nothing seems that easy with these cars)

[tcj]

The oil from the hydraulic clutch has probably flowed back into the oil pan through an internal leak. In this case, the hydraulic clutch cannot build up a frictional connection. Only when the primary pump has refilled the hydraulic clutch can you drive off.

[WRe]

Hi,
There is a "pressure holding valve" (E) which could be leaky. It should prevent the clutch from running empty.
...WRe

[ctaylor738]

My ex-280sl would do this for a few seconds after sitting for a month or so.  Like your situation, it didn't seem to do any harm.

Cheers,

CT

[tcj]

and here there is a piston ring that runs in a bushing (see green arrow), which may also be leaking.
There is also a lubrication pressure valve in the valve body assembly, which may also be leaking.