Gearbox Woes...

[SteveyT]

Hi All,

Had a high pitched whine develop from the engine bay area of my E280 auto on Saturday. It was something that would develop as the car warmed through. This morning, as I got close to my destination, when it changed down through the gears (3rd --> 4th --> 5th etc.), the revs spiked between gears, like not lifting off the accelerator in a manual.

When I got to where I was going (less than a mile away from the revs spiking), when I slowed down in the car park the car lost all drive to the wheels. I switched off the engine and turned it back on, it just to say allowed me to get into a parking spot but it was like a slipping clutch. I understand autos don't have a clutch but Torque Convertors.

Anyway, I've booked the RAC to take me home. Does anyone have any thoughts one what the problem could be? I've tried to be a descriptive as I possibly could!

Many thanks,
-SteveyT.

 

[Richard Moakes]

Sorry to say that you have a seriously unwell gearbox there, best case is that you have run low on fluid, worst case is you are going to need a gearbox specialist to strip and rebuild it

From your description, it sounds like you had flaring and the clutch packs inside the gearbox are now either worn out or simply not engaging due to lack of hydraulic pressure.

Good Luck,

 

[television]

Did you get a chance to check the fluid level

 

[Richard Moakes]

Thinking about it, the high pitched whine has to be a clue.

Sounds like low fluid or pump failure, I would do as Malcolm suggests and check the fluid level in the gearbox first of all.

 

[star]

poss gearbox filter blocked, when was it last changed, if level ok, check filter and sump for debri?? when these filters block, they give a whine as the oil is sucked thru.

 

[SteveyT]

Thanks for the quick replies.

If the filter was blocked etc., would the whine go up and down with the revs of the engine?

Thanks again!

-SteveyT

 

[star]

yes to a certain piont,

 

[SteveyT]

I'm going to attempt to change the gearbox fluid and filters this weekend using Parrot's guide in the DIY section, am I correct in thinking I will need the following:

1 x Gearbox gasket
9 or 10 litres of gearbox fluid (???)
1 x Gearbox dipstick

Anything I've forgotten will be greatly appreciated!

Also, will my local dealer normally hold the above items in stock?

Thanks guys

 

[BlackC55]

I would not change the ATF. I think you will be wasting money.

Drop the sump pan hand have a look for any debris.

 

[star]

I'm going to attempt to change the gearbox fluid and filters this weekend using Parrot's guide in the DIY section, am I correct in thinking I will need the following:

1 x Gearbox gasket
9 or 10 litres of gearbox fluid (???)
1 x Gearbox dipstick

Anything I've forgotten will be greatly appreciated!

Also, will my local dealer normally hold the above items in stock?

Thanks guys

Filter. Changing the oil and filter wont cost much for a poss big gain?? also check colour of oil for a metalic look to it.

 

[SteveyT]

Well, I've done the job! Or helped my dad to at least... Replaced the filter, oil and sump gasket.

Took 2 or 3 hours on the drive with the front end up on ramps. Had a shortish drive with no problems or noises, kickdown was fine etc.

Just waiting for my dipstick to arrive at the dealer so I can check out the level is correct before I start using it properly!

With regards to the dipstick, when I called to enquire about the parts it was a bit of a no-no for me getting the dipstick. Then when I was in the dealer spying on the computer screen, "ooo, can I have one of those dipsticks?" "yeah sure..."

Thanks for the help though guys, and a BIG thanks to Parrot for his guide! :mrgreen:

 

[Daeths]

That's why I like this forum so much - lots of practical advice that saves a ton of money and gives you a big smile of satisfaction at the end of it. Well done mate.

All you need to do now is update the job sheet on the bottom of your mails

 

[SteveyT]

Save a ton of money... Hmm... Haha, I'm sure the labour costs would have been more than the £6 worth of DVDs I got my Dad at a garage!

Will get the jobs list updated now

 

[Daeths]

think someone onhere mentioned £150 stealer price for atf change. Don't tell ya pops, he want another DVD