Navigating the world of Mercedes-Benz Transmissions can sometimes feel like deciphering a complex code. For owners and enthusiasts of classic models like the 300E, understanding the nuances of the 722.3 series transmissions is crucial. One common point of confusion revolves around the starting gear – why do some models start in first gear, while others begin in second? Let’s clarify the differences, particularly between the 722.320 and 722.358 benz transmission models.
The Tale of Two Transmissions: 722.320 vs. 722.358
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Mercedes-Benz 300E models were primarily equipped with the 722.320 benz transmission. This robust and reliable unit was the standard choice for many years. A key characteristic of the 722.320 is its second-gear start. Unless you manually selected “L” or “2”, the car would typically pull away from a standstill in second gear under normal driving conditions.
However, around mid-1989, Mercedes-Benz introduced the 722.358 benz transmission as an alternative for the 300E. This updated transmission boasted several improvements over its 722.320 counterpart, most notably the inclusion of a first-gear start. This meant that vehicles equipped with the 722.358 would start in first gear automatically, providing a different driving feel, especially in terms of initial acceleration.
Image alt text: Frustrated emoticon expressing confusion about Mercedes-Benz transmission starting gear, related to a transmission swap experience.
Overlapping Years and Transmission Confusion
The source of much confusion stems from the fact that both the 722.320 and 722.358 benz transmissions were fitted to 300E models during overlapping production years, specifically from 1989 to 1991. This means that two 1991 model 300Es could potentially roll off the factory floor with different transmissions – one starting in second gear (722.320) and the other in first gear (722.358). This explains why some owners experience a second-gear start while others with seemingly similar models find their cars starting in first.
The exact criteria determining which benz transmission was installed in a particular vehicle remain somewhat unclear. Speculation suggests that factors like rear axle ratios might have played a role. It’s plausible that the first-gear start 722.358 was paired with lower numerical rear axle ratios, while the second-gear start 722.320 was matched with higher ratios. This is just a theory, but it aligns with the idea of optimizing gear ratios for different driving characteristics and performance needs.
Beyond the 300E: Other Benz Transmission Variants
It’s also important to note that the 300E range wasn’t exclusively limited to these two transmissions. The 300E 2.6 variant, for example, utilized the 722.4 series benz transmission, a different family altogether. Furthermore, the later 1993 24-valve engine 300E models were equipped with yet another benz transmission, the 722.369. Each of these transmissions has its own specifications and characteristics, further highlighting the diversity within Mercedes-Benz automatic transmissions of this era.
Considering a Benz Transmission Swap?
For those considering a benz transmission swap, understanding these nuances is vital. If you are looking to swap a 722.320, upgrading to a 722.358 can bring benefits like the first-gear start and other internal improvements, such as the upgraded B2 piston. However, as one owner experienced, even swapping to a 722.358 doesn’t guarantee a first-gear start in all situations, highlighting the complexities and potential variations within these systems.
In conclusion, the world of benz transmissions, particularly the 722.3 series in the 300E, showcases a fascinating evolution and some model-year complexities. Understanding the differences between transmissions like the 722.320 and 722.358 helps demystify the second-gear start phenomenon and provides valuable insights for owners and enthusiasts alike.
