I had the same problem in my 300E. The end tip broke in the pan, and it stayed there for about 2500 miles. At the following oil change I had the pan removed and there it was. I used the opportunity to change the transmission filter and gasket.
In the beginning I was very worried, but my mechanic told me not to.

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1999 Porsche 996 Carrera Convertible
1994 420E - SOLD
1986 300E - SOLD, what a car
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