Automatic Transmission

[Gerhard]

Hi all,

About two weeks ago my 230SL Automatic refused to go backwards(#@$%!?).

When I checked the oil level(at idle speed and trans in P) the level was over the max. Started to figure out how to get the oil out. Next day I checked again and the oil level was under minimum. Checked under the car and found there was oil leaking from the oil line to the cooler. Fixed that part, checked the oil level and test drove the car, still no good though.

Crawled under the car again and while cleaning the gear found a bolt and nut loose. When I touched the bolt I saw oil dripping. Tightened the bolt and secured with the nut and test drove again. This time the reverse revealed enormous power, kicking down the gas pedal while in reverse made the tires squeel!

Reverse is perfect now but I am not sure if the bolt might be too tight and cause damage to the internals of the transmission. Does anyone know the right adjustment for the said bolt. (Don't have any graphic showing which bolt)(wrench 10 for the bolt, wrench 22 for the nut).
The bolt is in the solenoid area on the right side. Is this adjustment also possible for forward drive?

Gerhard
1965 230SL

[ja17]

Hello Gerhard,
This problem is not uncommon. The large 22mm lock nut may become loose allowing the 10mm reverse band adjustment bolt to loosen. This 22mm locknut should be a checked for tightness occassionally. To re-adjust the band, the 22mm locknut should be loosened and the 10mm adjuster bolt should be just snugged (clockwise) then back the 10mm adjuster bolt out (counterclockwise) one and a three quarters turns (1 3/4). Tighten down the 22mm locknut. If the adjuster bolt becomes loose the transmission may be slow to go into reverse or may not reverse at all. If the adjuster bolt is too tight it may cause wear to the reverse band.
Here is a photo of the 22mm locknut and 10mm adjuster bolt. Good luck!

View the large 22mm lock nut with 10mm adjuster bolt on the right. The smaller adjustment on the left is the factory-set vacuum modulator adjustment.

Download Attachment: P1010144.jpg
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One easy way to drain off excessive transmission fluid is to loosen the rubber transmission line at the base of the radiator. Start the engine and allow some fluid to escape.

Joe Alexander
Blacklick, Ohio

[Gerhard]

Thanks Joe,

The right adjustement is not mentioned in the Haynes manual, in fact not much info on automatic transmission at all. Will check the adjustement before I go on a a trip to France 11th aug.
Checked the oillevel yesterday and it looked OK now.


Gerhard
1965 230SL