E320 transmission "Flare" from 2nd to 3rd

[Brian]

I have a 1994 E320 (275,000 km)with the 4 speed auto that has started to slip or flare, shifting from 2nd to 3rd. Not alot, yet, but it is a worry. Any tech advice on the potential problem and solution would be appreciated. Plus I would love to get a set of maintenance drawings for this transmission. Called ATRA and ATSG for a manual but they haven't got one. I am also subscribed to ALLDATADIY and they're online manuals are pretty poor. Thanks for the help

[Bigbenzman]

Hi Brian,
Welcome to Benzforum. I am not a Tech, but I've read elsewhere some things you may want to try. 1. There is a kit called a K-1 Accumulator spring kit, which may help your problem. The kit is less than three dollars at your local dealer, I think the part number is 126-270-44-77, but have them verify this is correct for your car. I'm told this is an easy installation, but I've never done this before myself. Save your old parts, as you will need them again if you rebuild the Tranny. 2. While you are making this change, it's a good time to change the Filter and the fluid(don't forget to drain the Torque Converter). 3. There is always a possibility the modulator valve could need adjustment. 4. If number 1, 2, and 3 don't fix the problem, you may be looking at a tranny rebuild. Item number 1 above has fixed this problem for others, and hopefully will resolve your issue. Keep us posted.

Ken

[Brian]

Thanks Ken for your reply. Very interesting. What I have done was to remove the valve body and replace several of the B1 related valve springs in the upper and lower valve body. Worked like a trick!! I found a transmission shop in the area with a tech guy that was familiar with the transmission, it's problems and the fix. He even supplied all the springs with complete instruction for alot less then sending the car to a shop. Pretty easy job. He has also given me some great information on a fix for the 95/98 models performance pattern problems in the 1-2-3-4-5 & 5-4-3 passing gear shifts with the 722.6 transmission. Very interesting. I do a little work in my garage and this will come in handy.
Thanks again for your reply.
Brian