[W126 Coupe] Re: 87 SEC hard shift now modulator and B2 piston

[Dick Spellman]

Hi Rick:

Sounds like a plan re: the modulator.  Perhaps you or someone else on 
the list can help me in understanding the mechanics of R&R for the B2.

My B2 issue is not with the coupe but with the 86 300SE Euro sedan.  If 
you come up with any helpful hints or instructions let me know.  I am 
thinking I need to tilt the transmission valve body downward by raising 
the engine.  Questions, I have a few.  Do I simply support the rear of 
the tranny while remove the cross member and then lower watching for the 
engine contact at the radiator?  Do I need to loosen the engine mounts?  
And will there be enough room along side to pull the old B2 and then 
install the nylon bushing plus the new B2?  I've heard of a few folks 
who say there is no way to get the nylon bushing in there because of 
limited space.  Will it be necessary to drop the exhaust up front and 
disconnect the drive shaft?

Regards,

Dick

Richard Hesek wrote:

>  Thanks for the reply Dick,
> I have had this same behavior in 2 diesels which are quite different due
>to the vacuum system.
> I have tested modulators exactly the way you describe. I have a vac pump
>but a Mity Vac would be ideal. Modulators fail when the diaphragm tears. A
>large tear will cause a harder shift and also cause trans fluid to be
>pulled upstream towards the intake manifold.
>  I have also replaced a B2 piston, tranny in the car, on my '81 300SD. It
>was easy provided you have good instructions. I am not sure about the
>coupe. Although it is a 126 chassis car, there are tight spaces where the
>sedans have room.
>  I will replace the modulator since it is cheap the car has 200k+ miles on
>it. I will let you know what goes on.
>
>Rick Hesek
>  
>