MB Fluids or not?? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Dave B. · #1 10-07-2006, 01:09 PM

Need to add some transmission fluid to my '88 560 SL. The manual says only use MB ATF (naturally) which is $26.00 a quart at your local dealer. Autozone says it will take Dexron III which is $4.00 a quart. What does everyone use? If you use non-MB ATF, which brand do you prefer? I saw Valvoline has a Dexron III / Mercron with additives for max life. Of course, there are others too.

What about other fluids such as brake and power steering? Is everyone using the non-MB fluids?

Thanks,
Dave

joselu43 · #2 10-07-2006, 01:54 PM

I do not believe using MB fluids is worth the extra cost for ATF. A good Dexron III / Mercron ATF oil will do. I have been using Pennzoil for a number of years now on my 88 560SL. I use generic brake fluid (DOT 4 I think) but MB steering fluid.

Jl

Gilly · #3 10-07-2006, 05:13 PM

I didn't think MB had their own fluid for the older trannies. The newer ones need the special MB fluid, which is expensive. You're is fine with an good name brand Dexron III/ Mercon, correct. Don't get it at a dealer, NOT at that price! I think you were quoted for the new-style transmission fluid, even then that price is way high, can find it for more like $9 to $13/liter, but that not what your trans needs. Or your wallet.
Gilly

Gilly · #4 10-07-2006, 05:18 PM

Oh on the other fluids, I think MB is in line with the price on brake fluid, but as long as you are getting "DOT4+" you are OK, but price out the dealer on that too. Power steering fluid, you can use the dealer if you want, I would recommend getting actual "power steering fluid" rather than ATF for the steering fluid though, you can find "power steering fluid" actually pretty cheap at the Zone if you don't like the dealer price.
Coolant: MB or Zerex Z05 I think it's called? Someone else will chime in I'm sure.
The shop I was at, on the older trannies used Penzoil ATF, worked fine.

deltajetfixer · #5 10-07-2006, 06:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gilly

Coolant: MB or Zerex Z05 I think it's called? Someone else will chime in I'm sure.

Ding, ding, (Chime sound)

Zerex G-05, pronounced "Gee-Five"

smack · #6 10-07-2006, 07:19 PM

ATF is heavier than PS fluid and generates less whining from the pump. Some new car manufacturers service facilities will replace PS with ATF to prevent the whining in the cold.

Alkraut · #7 10-08-2006, 07:38 PM

My Advance Auto store put some BG Synthetic ATF on clearance. I picked some up. Says it is approved for many car and ATF types including Mercedes ATF and Dextron III.

Has anyone used BG Synthetic ATF in their Mercedes? I was told that it was a "performance" high end brand.

Gilly · #8 10-08-2006, 07:40 PM

As long as it implies that the fluid is compatible with or meets specification pertaining to DexronIII/Mercon, it is OK to use.
Gilly