Delay going into reverse

[jberks]

Hi all,
I have a 2000 E240 (auto tip 40k miles). It runs great but I have a question. If I brake hard (abs engaged) and immediately select reverse (for example having missed a junction), the auto gearbox doesn't actually go into reverse for probably 3-5 seconds. If I press the throttle, the revs go up but little else happens.
I don't make a habbit of this but it's rather alarming being stuck with no drive when you need to get out of the way of oncoming traffic. I actually coasted backwards for 15 feet last time. By the time the gearbox woke up, I'd almost finished the manoeuvre.
Any ideas ?
thanks
Julian

2000 E240 (40k)
2001 Jeep Cherokee CRD
1995 C220
2004 Smart Pulse
Well they're all from the Daimlers !

 

[william silver]

Sounds like wear in the gearbox e.g pumps.
Have it checked asap. This was one of the symptoms my gearbox showed before it needed a complete overhaul and renewal (George Fraser at Alperton just off North Circular at Hanger Lane).

 

[jberks]

thanks William. Not sure though as it has always done it (first noticed it around 20k) and everything else seems fine. If I stop normally and select reverse, then it engages amost immediately, it just seems to be after a sudden stop - not something I make a habbit of. I was wondering whether there was something that has to slow down or depressurise before it would switch - perhaps intentionally to protect the diff or prop.
The car is only 4 1/2 and has clocked 40k miles so I would be very unhappy if the gearbox had worn out yet.