78 300D does not want to go into reverse

Started by not liking to back up , then reguired more rpms to engage , now won't go in at all sometimes , then other times goes in but is very weak

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Transmission / Suspension Specific Aid

Chassis Model Number

W123

Common Problem - May be simple solution

This happens quite regularly on the older automatics. I have posted the solution on our Member Tech Help Section. Members can view the troubleshooting and repair information by

CLICKING HERE.

reverse band 78 300D

Kent thank you for your responce , that was exzactly the problem , nut and stud were so loose I could turn them with my fingers
you definetly saved me a real headache , goes right into reverse with no problem like it used to
there does not seem to be a slot or anything to grab to adjust the stud easily , can I remove the stud from the trans to cut a grove without causing a problem to the internal set up ???
Thanks Much
Ralph

' 91 350SD problem going into reverse

I have been having the same problem as "Submitted by re3626 on 11 May 2009 - 12:52am. (The problem ) Started by not liking to back up , then reguired more rpms to engage , now won't go in at all sometimes , then other times goes in but is very weak".
My car is a '91 350SD with about 220,000 miles on the odo. (I bought it used from a college student,so it may have many more miles than that.)
My tranny will engage OK if I coasting downhill backwards. It is touch and go if the car is motionless, sometimes it engages, other times it won't, even with elevated rpm. If I try to go into reverse and have to go uphill immediately, the tranny refuses to engage.
I took a look at the solution posted above. I would lke to know if the same kind of adjustment applies to the tranny in the '91 350SD as the '78 300D?
If not, please point me to the appropriate page of Kent's manuals. I have very little experience with transmission repair, and hope it can be a simple matter of adjustment.
DRD

No Adjustment available

Sorry, but on the later transmissions no external reverse band adjustment is available. It could be a problem with pressure getting to the reverse band piston (maybe try TransX additive - see tips under tech help) or it could be your reverse mechanism is worn out.

1981 300D Reverse Band Inspection Adjustment

the Silver Bullet would not go into reverse happened literally overnight. Fluid was low so I added fluid, no luck. Had vacuum leaks,fixed vacuum no luck. Finally adjusted reverse band. This was the first thing I looked at and the lock nut was as tight as a drum. As a last resort I loosened the nut backed the stud out and then in and yes I am backing up again! Probably a combination of all three. But be aware if the lock nut is tight, check the adjustment to save yourself $$. It cost me $15.00 for the lift rental.