99E300DT tranny dipstick
 

My 99E300DT is nearing 60,000 miles and I've decided after reading and searching the subject that the following is needed to properly change the transmission fluid:

8 quarts of MB synthetic ATF
1 magnetic drain pan plug
filter and gasket set
dipstick

The question is does one leave/use the dipstick in place of the cap that seals the dipstick tube, or does it go in the toolbox for another 60k?

Thanks,

Steve

60K is rather early to change the tranny fluid in this model. Of course MB says you never need to change it but if you plan to keep the car long term I believe a more realistic change interval is every 100K miles. Just my opinion....many here over do this kind of maintenance and I'm not sure it's worth the extra $$$. Good luck with the project.

I've read in previous posts that more city based driving 60K is what is recommended. Most highway, 100K is recommended. Also "lifetime fill" usually meant 100K.

Anywho there are people with '96 '97 E300 with close to 300K on the odometer and no mention of tranny replacement.

Regardless as long as you use the correct equipment I don't think it would be detrimental to replacing the tranny fluid at 60K.

Better safe than sorry.

It's better to change it early than to change it late...

A number of W210 owners and at least a couple professional technicians on this board have come to the conclusion that a fluid change on a 722.6 really isn't a DIY operation. Fluid level is critical, and must be measured at a specific temperature. Be sure you are very well informed before doing this.

The shop tool dipstick is supposed to be at least a foot longer than the tube itself. It is inserted until it bottoms out in the pan and then the reading is taken. It will go back into the toolbox after you are done with it.

Don't forget that the cap on the dipstick tube needs to be broken in order to access the tube. You will need to purchase a new locking cap for the dipstick tube after you remove it.

Thanks for the replies. The reason I want to change the fluid at 60k is that in the DFW area we have lots of stop-and-go driving and very hot weather for much of the year. My tech looked at the fluid and it is starting to get a slightly brownish tint to it... I won't be doing it myself since my tech is very good and he's a reasonable fellow when it comes time to writing the invoice.
Steve