Gearbox adjustments.

[e500.org]

Hello all

I was wondering whether anyone has instructions of how to soften the gear changes in my 500E. I understand the gearbox can be adjusted?

Gears are all quite harsh, not so bad but certainly noticeable. Reverse engages immediately. Gearbox is around 6 or 7 years old (brand new one fitted). Gearbox oil change was completed around 18 months ago.

Many thanks.

 

[195910]

Hi Bro,

Its the Vacuum module (round black unit with a vacuum hose on the left side of the gearbox housing). But its not advised to adjust it to a softer setting because it causes more wear.

 

[maw1124]

I would say adjust it in half turn increments, counter clockwise, IIRC, until you reach the desired setting. If someone doesn’t post the MB instructions before I get to my computer, I’ll try to dig them out and post them. I think GSXR has them listed on w124performance.com. Don’t worry about the “wear” from less harsh gear changes, as it’s probably just moving back near stock.

Cheers,

maw

 

[e500.org]

I would say adjust it in half turn increments, counter clockwise, IIRC, until you reach the desired setting. If someone doesn’t post the MB instructions before I get to my computer, I’ll try to dig them out and post them. I think GSXR has them listed on w124performance.com. Don’t worry about the “wear” from less harsh gear changes, as it’s probably just moving back near stock.

Cheers,

maw

That's maw would very much appreciate that. Can this be done at home or specialist tools needed for the job? Essentially I would like it silky smooth, I think it hasn't been setup as per factory specs when the new gearbox was installed.

 

[maw1124]

https://www.500eboard.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1038
https://www.500eboard.com/forums/showthread.php?t=12711

People here may disagree about whether it should be silky smooth. I think this crowd, including me, prefers more snappy “positive” shift engagements for this car. It’s not a 600 Limo.

GL

maw

P.S. I forgot to answer your question. It’s a minor pain to DIY. Car kind of has to be in the air. If you have a hoist available, I don’t think there are special tools needed. Let the car cool, adjust, test drive for a few days or weeks, etc. FWIW, I’ve been “adjusting” mine for years, as I had it set a bit too harsh when I did my trans, yet still haven’t gotten around to softening it. I probably need a half turn softer, but I’ll get to it when I get to it.