Jim,
Thanks again for the additional info on the atf. I have been doing my own repairs for the last 30 years and plan to keep doing it. The only reason that I'm asking so many questions about this car is because I just purchased. As you know there is no repair manuals available so the best thing is to ask on this great forum.

As far as the tranny fluid it no big deal, fast lane has the synthetic atf, filter, gasket, and the special dipstick tool. I've ordered all of these parts and will be doing this soon. The level is checked at 40C and 80C which is the normal operating temp of the car between cold and normal. Another way is measure the amount drained should be about 7.5 liters.
Jim I'm am so paranoid about he dark trans fluid that I have stopped driving the car until I change it.

I'm practically your neighbor I live in Marlborough CT. and our local dealer want $468.00 to do the job. I have also had work done to previous cars by the New London dealer which is about the same.

It's bad enough that I have to be at their mercy occasionally, but if I can do it myself I will.

I own a 300sel also and have previously owned a 300D and a 420 sel. So far I like this e300 but like you say, if it only had a standard it would be a perfect car.
I travel back and forth to Portugal often and there they have all the standards, they are a joy to drive.

Thanks again Jim

Acerejo