W126 Auto box

[matsmith]

When my 84 280SE is cold engaging Drive or Reverse is pretty smooth, When it is warm the change is more violent, and gives a fairly reasonable thump through the diff.

Is this normal for these old mercs??

It has done 148,000 miles. Once in motion the 'box seems fine. Smooth changes and kickdown works fine.

Any help appreciated.

thanks.

 

[Francois]

At what revs does the car idle when it is hot?

When it is too high this will cause a thumb when changing to drive or reverse.

 

[Placey]

My 500 SE has a high idle speed when warm and can give a bit of a clunk when shifting. At £400 to fix the idle, I am living with this at the moment!

The other problem could be a worn propshaft coupling.