Debris in auto-trans pan

[n/a]

Took down the pan to change filter.  Found quite a bit of rubberish material.  Does this mean the clutches are self destructing?  Should I put in a new transmission?  Or are there some other solutions to give me an extra year or so till I can afford a rebuilt tranny?  Car drives well in 1st and 2nd but will not shift into 3rd and 4th.  As always Thanks and enjoy those 113's  1970 280SL  P.S.  I used my last filter Does anyone have a source for replacement gaskets and filters besides the dealer?

[Cees Klumper]

This debris could well be excess gasket material. The two engines I have taken apart lately had excess (silicone?) gasket material floating around inside, one quite a bit of it. IS your transmission shifting ok / showing other signs of problems?
For parts suppliers, check the vendor database, and I'm sure DrBenz has them for instance. Good luck,

Cees Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic

[n/a]

Thanks for the information.  Car still will not shift into 3rd or 4th.  Solenoid is working.  Torque is correct on valve body.  I guess the next step is to remove the valve body and check for debris?  Any ideas?  Thanks Again!

[Cees Klumper]

Please also check previous posts, using the search function. I recall Joe Alexander mentioning that sometimes one or more nuts can come loose, causing some operating problems.
In case of major trouble - I believe you can find rebuilt units for around $1,500-$2,000. Used ones should be no more than a few hundred $ although for all the work that's involved I would go with a rebuilt one rather than taking a gamble, unless you have a lot of spare time on your hands.

Cees Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic

[ja17]

Hello T3

Some very minor accumulations of this or tiny brass specs can be normal. Larger accumulations of dark composite materials in the pan and intake of the filter is usually clutch material. It can somewhat resemble used coffee grounds. The destruction of transmission clutches is usually accompinied by a burnt smelling transmission fluid.
These transmissions were designed to operate without normal clutch wear. That is why they are typically firm shifting. The clutch pack stops then engages before revovlving again during a shift. This stop and start creates a firm shift and no clutch weaar or slip.
If you have considerable clutch material in the pan the only fix is to repair or rebuild the unit I am afraid.
Others may be able to help here by their experiences here by listing some rebuilders and prices.
In case you have access to some donor cars; many of the early Mercedes W108 and W111 sedans used the same transmission. Look for the sixteen bolt transmission pan first. Later transmissions with four bolt pans will not work. Next check the identification plates on the side to verify the match.

Joe Alexander
Blacklick, Ohio