82 300SD Radiator Replacement advice

[JumpinJehosipha]

Well, my radiator finally gave up the ghost and started spewing liquid after getting stuck in traffic on a very hot day. Need to put in a new one, and the manual is somewhat cryptic with a Germanic version of Engrish for the important part:

2. Disconnect transmission and lube oil hoses and unscrew on radiator or air-oil cooler.

The open connections of oil hoses and connections on radiators can be closed with plastic plugs.

Ummm, OK. Are they telling me I have to open up both the engine oil cooling system, and the tranny cooling system to the elements as well, just to get the main radiator out? If so... BLARGH!!!

I don't mind changing the oil a little early while I'm in there, but I get nervous about automatic transmissions.. There is a lot of filth down there right now, and I have no good way to clean it all off real well. Don't want any of that gop getting in my tranny fluid.

So, please , somebody tell me they just mean that I need to remove some brackets that hold the hoses in place so I can lift out the old radiator and I don't have to open it all up! OK OK, I know.... Wishful thinking. So is there any tranny oil other then the MB stuff that's safe for this transmission?

Going to replace the thermostat and cap while I'm at it. Anything else I should do while I'm in there? The fan seems to still be stiff and viscous at working temp, but I might clean the flat spring off to be sure it's all engaging easily.

It was working sooooo, nice with the new AC, too. Always something.