ml auto box sticking in gear

[steveje]

I have a 2001 ML270 diesel and use it to tow a caravan, I have a problem that when towing, and only when towing the gearbox will stick in gear. The triptonic stops working, I have to pull over, turn engine off, wait a few minutes then start back up and it is normally ok. This used to happen towards the end of a long journey but last time out it happened after just several miles. The van is a big twin axle about 1900kg loaded but this is well inside the manufacturers recomendation of 3500kg. I also had a recent problem of no kickdown and this was the flow sensor, so this has been renewed. The sticking gearbox has been happening before and after the replacement of the flow sensor. The car was recently serviced (not by mercedes) but by a good local garage.
Anyone got any ideas ??

 

[johnb80]

Does it have an oil cooler? Not familiar with Mercs but in general for heavy towing with an auto an oil cooler is a good addition.

Regards - J

 

[hawk20]

Steveje, I would ask your local Merc dealer to contact Mercedes technical people and get advice from them on this one. They have usually come across most problems. According to my dealer, the new system is to ask advice by e-mail not by phone so you get a nice detailed written response (well your dealer does). Seems to work well.

 

[tom7035]

Does it have an oil cooler? Not familiar with Mercs but in general for heavy towing with an auto an oil cooler is a good addition.

Regards - J

All auto MB's have an ATF cooler John.

 

[bibamus]

It does sound like an auto box overheating problem though, have you had the ATF fluid checked or changed recently, the level could be low.

Allan

 

[steveje]

Thanks for everyones help..

I have not checked the auto box fluid
I thought I read somewhere this was filled for life??
Is there a filter to change also?

Is this something they should have checked at the recent service (non mercedes) or is it common not to check the auto box during a normal serice?

 

[hawk20]

Steveje, I would ask your local Merc dealer to contact Mercedes technical people and get advice from them on this one. They have usually come across most problems. According to my dealer, the new system is to ask advice by e-mail not by phone so you get a nice detailed written response (well your dealer does). Seems to work well.

This was my earlier posting. I would still do that. Having heard what the technical people say the problem is (and maybe got a quote for repair) you can still go elsewhere if you prefer. You could also try a good 'indie' some of whom will have contacts with Merc Technical.

There is a very good thread with lots of information in it, which just might be relevant: -
http://forums.mercedesclub.org.uk/showthread.php?t=8109&highlight=Auto

It is very informative about whether or not to change the oil in the 'sealed for life' system, and how to do it, and on the effects on gearbox performance of the oil level being below recommended levels.