so, I've got two issues:

1) the throttle peddle doesn't even reach the kickdown switch.

2) while city driving, I used one foot to throttle and the other foot to click the kickdown switch, and... nothing happened.

what gear/speed range does the kickdown do anything?

if I floor it, the trans does downshift by itself, but there is a noticeable lag.

any ideas?

the switch is cheap, so I'm thinking to just replace that, and the pedal. just want to make sure I understand what kind of response the switch is supposed to have.

thanks

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1983 300CD Turbodiesel

Are you sure it's getting power?

I have no idea.

how should I check.?

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1983 300CD Turbodiesel

You need to adjust the throttle linkage so that the pedal hits the downshift button before it runs out of travel.

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Gone to the dark side

- Jeff

Same way as you would check any 12V source. Use a test light or voltmeter to measure between the power wire and ground.

Will do
Thx.
Assuming it's getting power. Then the switch is bad?

Not sure how to determine if it's the switch or the solenoid

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1983 300CD Turbodiesel

The 3/2 valves on the valve cover break and sometimes 'jam' the cam mechanism that allows a wider throttle linkage range.

Ask me how I know.

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http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7271/7...144c3fc1dc.jpg

part of my maintenance was to change out the 3/2 valves and vacuum tubing.

but I will check and report back.

thx

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1983 300CD Turbodiesel

Not necessarily...I once had a problem with a broken wire near the solenoid. If you have power, short the switch leads together. In my 190, the solenoid makes a click which is just audible in a quiet garage.

I have this same issue - the pedal does not reach the switch.

How does one adjust the throttle linkage to correct the spacing?

Some say to disconnect the switch entirely - is it possible to run the car without it?

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1991 300E 124.030 103.983KE 722358 03 412178
207K

1979 240D 123.123 250K (Project car)

2000 Ford Ranger, 187K

2015 Dodge Ram 1500 EcoDiesel 37K

There is an adjustment (bolt w/ slotted hole) on the rotating "throttle" rod from firewall to valve cover under the hood. However, first check that something is not preventing the rod from rotating fully, like the valve cover switch mentioned. If not, your rod may have extra slack from a missing plastic bushing or such.

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1984 & 1985 CA 300D's
1964 & 65 Mopar's - Valiant, Dart, Newport
1996 & 2002 Chrysler minivans

Thanks, Bill - will check it out and report back.

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1991 300E 124.030 103.983KE 722358 03 412178
207K

1979 240D 123.123 250K (Project car)

2000 Ford Ranger, 187K

2015 Dodge Ram 1500 EcoDiesel 37K