I'm also planning this soon...hopefully early spring :) on my 83 300SD I have the filter, gasket and cooler lines already...on deck for the actual job.
I've been curious about fluid volume as well, and making sure the right amount is replaced as I seem to remember some voodoo involved...or is it just simple and via the dipstick?
Keep in mind...I'm still a newb-newb!
Happy I have a driveway now, but not as excited that it's sloped....
Caitlin
Santa Fe
--- In
diesel_mercedes@yahoogroups.com, "Nate" wrote:
>
>
> Me ;
>
> I'd replace the tranny filter while the pan is off as Mercedes Slushboxes really do have a real filter unlike most others that use only a cheapo screen .
>
> Dirty or partially clogged filters can cause all manner of tranny problems so it's cheap insurance .
>
> I'd drain the T.C. too , IIRC it's a 5 MM Allen .
>
> How does the fluid smell now ? sweet or burnt ? .
>
> -Nate
> in 36* F Maine
>
> AJ wrote :
> >
> > Okay-- as I understand it, dexron is a GM "branded" fluid- that GM essentially allowed to go "off patent.." So if a fluid "claims" to be Dex III, it's that they say so.
> >
> > S'ok.. Not a big GM fan..
> >
> > That said..
> >
> > Essentially you're buying the reputation of the fluid manufacturer. Because no one is "checking them" to make sure they're actually producing a DexIII "meets or exceeds" product.
> >
> > I've always liked Valvoline-- had good luck with their products.
> >
> >
> > So they've got two Dex/Merc products..
> >
> > http://www.valvoline.com/products/consumer-products/automatic-transmission-products/automatic-transmission-fluid/33
> >
> > and
> >
> > http://www.valvoline.com/products/consumer-products/automatic-transmission-products/automatic-transmission-fluid/37
> >
> >
> > Now-- I'm not normally a fan of "high mileage" preparations. But I am apparently losing some ATF currently.. My thought was-- drop the pan, drain the tc.. Refill with the Dex/Merc Valvoline. (maybe I've fixed the leak replacing the lines/pan gasket) If not- then as fluid needs replaced, move to the dex/merc "extended mile.."
> >
> > --and obviously I stop adding, if it stops needing more, versus filling the system with it.
> >
> > Is there any logic TO my logic, or should I just sleep a little more??
> >
> > I'd had a momentary consideration of looking at a royal purple/amsoil product.. Then I forgot.. I'm driving an old benz to save cash, not burn it.. :)
> >
>