Degreased the engine well enough to separate transmission from engine;

Prep for separation went smooth except for one clip securing one transmission line to the transmission body on the left lower side (it was stripped... so I cut through the metal clip which will be easy to replace).

Removed transmission face plate giving access to TC mounting bolts.

Marked the torque converter in relation to the plate with red paint. Removed 6 mounting bolts by rotating the engine shaft clockwise (while holding timing chain snug).

Removed grounding strap bolt with size 10 allen socket (this also frees the starter)

The remaining nuts and bolts securing trans to engine are 17mm... except for one that is 19mm (Mercedes is weird that way... no clue why one is 19mm)

Secured TC into the transmission (in photograph). Then mounted transmission to stand vertical using a tire as the base. (The plywood is bolted through the tire rim holes which you cannot see in the picture... then up through donut mount for a secure fit). This will allow easy work on the transmission.



Next week or so will be engine disassembly.

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