first gear start module Location?

[jeff0093]

Hi, when I picked up my car it came with a used first gear start module that was never installed, I'm finding mix information on the location? I have the wiring pin out but can't find location, I only spent 20 mins looking but I'd figure it's quicker to post. 002 545 41 32 VDO thanks for the help Jeff-

 

[borring]

I placed the box under the steering wheel, as the BNC cable should go to the speed sensor cable next to the fuse box, and the rest should go under the gear shift.

 

[gsxr]

Jeff, that is the W126 FGS relay. It's not plug & play on the 500E. It can be wired up but it would be a custom install. AFAIK, it will work fine, but it has a fixed upshift speed at light throttle (under heavier throttle, the bowden cable position controls the upshift). I'm not sure if anyone has posted instructions on how to install that relay into a 500E. I've never used one so I can't help much - sorry.

 

[jeff0093]

I guess this is why the last owner never installed, so whats the best way to get first gear starts?

 

[szvook]

so whats the best way to get first gear starts?

1. Use the gear shifter to move to B, then back to D and you'll have FGS for that launch. Next launch will require the same B to D movement.
2. The easiest way is to get a FGS transmission valve body installed. The mod is mechanical and will keep the first gear enabled at all times, unless the valve body is removed.

Ron Stevester is selling a few FGS valve bodies now: http://www.500eboard.com/forums/showthread.php?4415-First-gear-valve-bodies-fire-sale

 

[2phast]

The W126 FGS is wired like so;

Pin 1 - kickdown wire which is live +12V when switch is activated (you can tap into the "B" selector wire)
Pin 2 - switched 12volt
Pin 3 - blank
Pin 4 - Ground
Pin 5 - speed pulse wire from back of speedo
Pin 6 - blank

No adjustable upshift with this module, it will upshift from 1st to 2nd at 7 mph

 

[jeff0093]

I think the valve body is the best option even though, the trans was just serviced before I got the car.

 

[Maui]

Can someone explain the connections on this FGS setup. I see a cable coming up through the firewall to a tee connection. One cable or wire appears to go toward the brake booster and one is going in just below the fuse box. I'm trying to understand what would have to be done to disconnect it. I have yet to find the actual module.

 

[gerryvz]

That looks like the FGSSwitch unit, from the metal connector and the type of cabling.

2Phast should be able to help you with this, as he's the resident FGSSwitch expert.

Have you checked 2Phast's web site and/or the FGSSwitch web site?

Mine is the BergWerks unit, so it's a totally different setup about the size of a cigarette pack, located behind and below the radio unit in the center console.

Cheers,
Gerry

 

[Maui]

Yes I have reviewed 2phast's website. I'd love to see a picture of where these wires or cables go without the fgs connected. I think this has something to do with my transmission issue. I am wondering what would happen if I disconnect the cable that goes in under the fuse box. I don't want screw anything up.

 

[2phast]

Yes I have reviewed 2phast's website. I'd love to see a picture of where these wires or cables go without the fgs connected. I think this has something to do with my transmission issue. I am wondering what would happen if I disconnect the cable that goes in under the fuse box. I don't want screw anything up.

It looks like the FGS is tapped into the front ABS sensor. So if you remove the T-Tap and connect the two wires back together, then you have removed the speed signal from the FGS. If its a FGSstrat module, it would have to be under the dash somewhere, its too large to fit in the console, do feel around the carpet attached to the trans tunnel, it could be tucked in there as well.

 

[Maui]

I think I found it under the steering wheel. So, just for clarification which two wires get reconnected? I'm guessing the one that goes through the firewall goes to the control box. So connect the one from under the fuse box to the one that goes toward the brake booster?