My sister has a TR Elite (used to be mine). I had an auto replacement done, ever since it was done the first time the car takes off after it has started, it takes off in 2nd gear. After that, it is fine, next time you come to a stop it will take off in first gear as normal. But if you switch the car off, then start is again and drive off, it is in 2nd.

Has been like this for a number of years, could never solve the problem. Anyone struck this before?

2nd gear is safe mode ie limp home mode for when there is a problem. It gets you home but needs fixing.

Rob

If you read my post properly it is not stuck in 2nd gear constantly (limp mode), just the first time you drive off after the car is started, after that its perfect.

Pooky's does that too but if you leave it with the O/D switch in the off position it doesnt do it. Go figure. :nuts: :D

2nd gear is safe mode ie limp home mode for when there is a problem. It gets you home but needs fixing.

Rob
Isn't limp mode 3rd gear anyway?

3rd is limp thats what my tranny was stuck in. starting in 2nd is one wierd problem.

can you pop it in 1st gear like
P
R
N
D
2
1 <-----start it off like that
then put it in 2nd and leave it in drive...

Good question....from memory i think you can yes, but i will have to confirm

That's how I've had to be driving, of late...
Really bad performance after a little bit of warming up (maybe injectors, gearbox is going, who knows) in D, so slip it into 2nd, get her up to warmth and then slip her into D...

It also seems that there's some "flat spots" in acceleration...

That's how I've had to be driving, of late...
Really bad performance after a little bit of warming up (maybe injectors, gearbox is going, who knows) in D, so slip it into 2nd, get her up to warmth and then slip her into D...

It also seems that there's some "flat spots" in acceleration...

first thing, give it a really good tune up, spark plugs, leads, oil, filters, clean out the TB with some TB cleaner if you can, and see how that goes.
if its still sluggy...then could be injectors....run a few bottles of injector cleaner through it (or a few litres of diesel;)) and then see how she goes.

nothing like a good service

Maybe a good old oil change on the box will help.. how long since you last did it..???:D

how long since you last did it..???:D

I'm curious on that too :D

Maybe a good old oil change on the box will help.. how long since you last did it..???:D

Have changed trans fluid, no change...

i thought the gearbox was meant to start off in 2nd gear, stop me if im wrong, but im sure i read it in either the owners manual or the workshop manual.

i thought the gearbox was meant to start off in 2nd gear, stop me if im wrong, but im sure i read it in either the owners manual or the workshop manual.

So what would be the point of having a first gear then?? :nuts:

What you may have read in the owners manual was to prevent wheelspin on slippery surfaces you can take off in 2nd gear.

VRWagon, as this is your post, will reply to your problem.

The TR/S transmissions select 2nd when stationary to reduce drag when stationary. Once the TPS sends the "off idle" signal it down shifts to 1st (you will not detect this) and off you go.

Your problem is a transmission problem, there is most likely a small obstruction in the valve body. The reason it clears after you get moving is the flow of fluid moves the obstruction and all is good. Just a guess or it could be a tps issue with either adjustment or the switch itself.

Get your TPS checked and if tests ok get it reset, if you still have the issue then look at trans. If the TCU was the issue it will either work or not work.

For the record, 3rd is "limp" mode, not second.

VRWagon, as this is your post, will reply to your problem.

The TR/S transmissions select 2nd when stationary to reduce drag when stationary. Once the TPS sends the "off idle" signal it down shifts to 1st (you will not detect this) and off you go.

Your problem is a transmission problem, there is most likely a small obstruction in the valve body. The reason it clears after you get moving is the flow of fluid moves the obstruction and all is good. Just a guess or it could be a tps issue with either adjustment or the switch itself.

Get your TPS checked and if tests ok get it reset, if you still have the issue then look at trans. If the TCU was the issue it will either work or not work.

For the record, 3rd is "limp" mode, not second.


Thanks for the very helpful advice. Will check out the TPS and see how we go.

i thought the gearbox was meant to start off in 2nd gear, stop me if im wrong, but im sure i read it in either the owners manual or the workshop manual.
The auto that was in my merc (pre conversion) started off in second "under normal driving conditions".
If i actually wanted to take off at speed and planted the foot, damn that 2200kg tank took off.
Dont think that applies to magnas though :confused:.

Thank you MADMAGNA for substaniating my arguement. MESSYMAGNA i do beleive that the transmission reacts in a similar way to your mercedes as with most conventional automatics.

Sounds like what happened to mine.....I recently completed a total rebuild of my TS 2.6...On removing the engine and trans I crushed one of the pulse generators....they are a small rectangular box with a mire coming out on top of the Trans near the engine mount...they can be replaced for $100 each....after this it was like the heavens opening as I flew from every stop light and swished off into the sunset a happy Magnanamouse!!!lol lol lol lol :D