1986 300SDL gear selector sounds and feels loose. Not sure where to begin looking. Any ideas?

I think the problem you are describing is due to the shift rod bushing. The bushings are made of Nylon/Plastic, and frequently break apart and fall out. You will probably notice a vibration noise coming from your shift lever, but the noise will disappear when you put your hand on the shifter. These bushings are very inexpensive, and can easily be installed, as long as you have access to the bottom side of your car.

Ken

Thank you BigBenzMan. I found some information on the shift rod bushings, picked them up yesterday, and getting ready to go out to install them. I went ahead and got 2 pair so I can chnge to bushings in the 300SD as well.

The SD does not have that "I'm getting ready to fall apart" feel and sound like the SDL, but seeing as I have never replaced them in the 302,000 miles I have driven, they are probably way past due.

I found a procedure for replacing these at:

http://business.baylor.edu/Richard_Easley//autofaqs/bush.htm

which seems to be fairly thorough.

Thanks again.

Shift Lever end bushing replaced.

Transmission end bushing replaced