w123 230e auto box functions

[Richie]

I was just wondering if anyone had any idea what all the functions was
p= park
r= reverse
n= neutral
d= drive
s= ?
L= ?
If any one has any idea what the other fuctions are that would be great thanx.

 

[guydewdney]

S basicaly will hold it in 3rd, L will hold it in 2nd

D uses 1,2,3,& 4
S uses 1,2 & 3
L uses 1 & 2

useful when 'getting a move on' - for example, slowing for a roundabout - stick in s, then possibly L to keep the revs up, then boot it out of the roundabout..


or for engine braking on long hills...

 

[Ted]

IIRC, the so called meaning for 's' ans 'l' on the Mercedes was 'slope' and 'low'

I'm sure that they mean something a little more sensible in German.

As with any auto box (of that era), the box will attempt to change up if you are going down a hill, thus denying you any engine braking. The S/L positions allow you to change down, and hold a lower gear to provide this braking.

As Guy says, it can also be useful to hang on to a gear when accelerating - more predictable than some kickdowns I have experienced.