Transmissions and Torque Converters (actually fluid clutches)

[ctaylor738]

I am trying to sort out what torque converter/fluid clutch (TC) is correct for the transmission currently installed in a 1967 250SL.  The transmission currently in the car is a 111 270 01 01, which I cannot find any documentation on.  The closest I can find is a 111 270 13 01, which is for a 230S fintail.  So I am assuming that the trans in the car is even earlier.  From the picture in the EPC, the fintail transmission uses a four bolt TC, but the TC in the car is an aluminum six bolt.  So it would appear that I have a mis-match.

But does this matter?  I am hearing that all of the K4A025 transmissions used in Pagodas and other cars of the era are "all the same."  I am also hearing that TCs are interchangeable as long as the flywheel plate matches the number of bolts.  But I am having a hard time believing this given the different part numbers assigned to the various components.  

For instance, is there a difference between the transmissions installed int he 280SL vs. the 230/250SL?

Should I care that this 250SL has a transmission that seems to pre-date the fintail?

See the attached PDF for PN detail.

Cheers,

CT

[franjo_66]

Hi CT

I went through a similar problem a couple of years ago when the fluid coupling/TC split on my 230SL

What I found out was that there are various combinations of the FC/TC that were used. My 230SL had an aluminum converters (4 bolt version) and then later version 230/250SLs had the 6 bolt version. The later steel converters were all 6 bolt versions.

In order to use the six bolt version, you would need to get the matching flex plate as well.
Also be aware that for the steel six bolt versions, there are riveted hub steel converters and the later welded hub converters which are interchangeable.  The welded hub steel converters never leak

Regards
Franjo

[felix]

Do you have a source for the steel converters? We have a solution for the leaking aluminum converters 6 bolt (rivets), but have not found one at a reasonable price in order to test the procedure. Thanks,
Felix

[ctaylor738]

Sun Valley Mercedes Transmissions
SL-Tech
Adsitco