Expert: Sean Halliday - 6/14/2007

Question
I bought a 79 Mercedes 450 SL that was towed in a dolly for more than 300 miles. They were instructed to tow it with the front wheels touching the ground but they did not and now the car won't move. What exactly happens to the transmission when this is done. What type of transmission does this vehicle have?  Thank you very much for your response.

Answer
I dont really work on transmissions especially automatics but i know if you tow it for more than 30 miles,its basically burnt out your internal clutch/clutches.As well as other damage(seals) so you need to ask a transmission tech.What type of transmission?...its a automatic 3 speed with o/drive i believe its a very simple transmission which mercedes fitted to most SLS and shouldnt be hard to get a replacement.Unlike modern transmissions this one is mechanical and not electrical with a lot of internal computor parts.Shouldnt cost too much.The exact model and serial number of transmissons varies so you will need to check the door label and find the number.The SLs had different transmissions from year to year.It may be under the hood or inside the drivers door pillar.