Converting 280S auto to manual?

[Nab]

I've been thinking about selling my 280S for a while, just feel like it's not pushing all my buttons. I've checked out a few other brands of classic cars and have been disappointed with whats on offer (except for a burgundy Triumph 2500S currently for sale on Carsales - it's absolutely mint - shame my 198cm frame doesn't fit in it). I did drive a manual and it was so much fun (car was average though) - I think the manual transmission is what I'm after.

Not many manual W116s or parts in Australia. Any ideas where to look? Mainly the pedal set and clutch/flywheel parts. Any other options on transmissions other than the 4-speed? My owners manual mentions a 5-speed option but I think hen's teeth would be easier to find...
Maybe even a 5-speed supra gearbox (was a common conversion on old Holdens)?

Done a couple trans swaps 20+ years ago so I have a rough idea on tailshafts, gearbox mounts etc.. Worst case, if it goes pear shaped I can just put the auto back in.

 

[c107]

It’s doable and manual cars do come up locally occasionally. Europe or South Africa are your best bets, but I would be easier to find a whole car if you could.

 

[Michel]

What comes up for sale more often are 107 series 280 models with manual transmissions

 

[Nab]

Thanks guys, have since found out that the M110 is externally balanced via the flywheel/flex plate so changing to manual might take a bit more engineering than just bolting it all up!
Also sounds like the $$$$ are adding up real quick...

 

[c107]

If you want a manual Mercedes easier to find an earlier car like a w114, w108 or w111 with a manual.

 

[Stephen Nemeth]

Converting to a manual is doable, but comparatively expensive. I swapped a MB 716.644 6 speed transmission into my 1983 500SL. I used a Kangaroo team adapter kit and shifter. They also sell used transmissions. I sourced an R107 clutch pedal assembly from Germany and a handbrake assembly from the UK. Total cost was around $3k Cdn. It was definitely worth it from a driving enjoyment perspective.

 

[Nab]

Converting to a manual is doable, but comparatively expensive. I swapped a MB 716.644 6 speed transmission into my 1983 500SL. I used a Kangaroo team adapter kit and shifter. They also sell used transmissions. I sourced an R107 clutch pedal assembly from Germany and a handbrake assembly from the UK. Total cost was around $3k Cdn. It was definitely worth it from a driving enjoyment perspective.

Thanks for that. Not sure I'm confident enough and know enough about the W116 to be ordering what I need from overseas!

Cheers again guys, I think I will put this idea to rest unless I find a cheap manual that is being wrecked!!!

 

[c107]

Manual 280SL project:

Facebook

www.facebook.com

 

[Nab]

Manual 280SL project:

Facebook

www.facebook.com

5-speed manual too!!! A bit much for me, especially when the donor car is worth more than mine haha