Mercedes-Benz W123 automatic kickdown not working
W123240 D300 D
How does the W123 automatic's kickdown work?
Kickdown is electric: there is a switch under the accelerator pedal and a solenoid on the side of the automatic transmission. The shift point and the firmness of the shifts can be adjusted at the vacuum regulator.
Why does the W123 automatic not downshift with kickdown?
The cause can be the throttle linkage adjustment: if the rod going to the transmission is adjusted too long, the shifts happen too early and kickdown does not drop a gear at higher speeds. A lever at the transmission that is only partly attached also prevents it from working. Check the linkage mounting and adjustment.
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