2005 e320 cdi trany service question

[dorje]

I'm planning to service the transmission following the Pelican tech article for my car. Other than the filter fluid and gaskets is there anything else that should be changed out?

Mileage is 116K. the original owner had all the services done at MB.

[jay_bob]

You should have a 722.6 transmission in that 2005 W211.

I would recommend replacing the harness connector plug while it's empty. Also inspect the wire harness for signs of leakage. In extreme cases the fluid can wick up the cable by capillary action and flood the transmission computer.

Note you need the "dipstick tool" and I would order a few of the red tabs. The level measurement is temperature sensitive. It has to be done at a fluid temp of 80C. Use an IR thermometer on the pan, if you don't have access to diagnostic equipment that can read real time data.

If you do have such a device, remember that the 722.6 uses the same wire for the P/N sensing switch, as the fluid temperature sensor. Therefore unless the transmission is in a driving range you cannot read the temperature through the sensor since the line is open circuit.

Remember this does not take standard ATF, there is a special fluid that is required. Either dealer specific fluid or the Pentosin equivalent.

[sixto]

x2 on the connector also called a pilot bushing.

Sixto
98 E320s sedan and wagon
02 C320 wagon

[chronometers]

Shell manufactures the ATF fluid as well. May be easier and less expensive here in USA.

[Zulfiqar]

lookup a lube distributor in your area and call them, you need shell ATF134 - which is not too pricey either.

servicing this transmission is very simple - drain it from both plugs, drop pan, drop filter, button back up with new filter, remove electrical connector, remove pilot bushing, install new bushing, flood clean the electrical connector.

replace everything back, fill with fluid, (when cold you have to adjust to the lower level of the dipstick)

drive around for 20 minutes and recheck fluid, it should be on the hot side (check with infrared thermometer - allow error of 5 to 8C when using an IR thermogun) - adjust fluid as necessary.

[ROLLGUY]

I am not sure about the '97 and older, but the '98-'06 had the 722.6 trans (E class). I have done at least three 722.6 fluid changes, and agree with changing the adapter plug. Part # 203-540-02-53. I have had great success using compressed air to force the fluid out of the converter through the cooler line. I usually get out about seven quarts total. It gets a little messy, but well worth the effort it takes to get most of the old fluid out. I believe the 722.6's do not have a converter drain plug after'03. I did a '99 E300, and it had a plug. I have also talked to several transmission experts (Marc at Sun Valley being one of them) that say Valvoline Max Life Synthetic ATF is compatible. It is a good alternative if the Shell 134 is not available. There are youtube videos of changing the adapter if needed.