Oh - the other threads suggested one should drain the torque converter, but I never saw how to.

Well today, I researched it and successfully drained the torque converter.

1 - Raise car, so you can see the "vent window"
Turn the car over, until the drain plug "in site"
3 - When "in sight" use a screwdriver to move the flywheel - the teeth from the flywheel are visible from the bottom, Use the screwdriver to "inch" along.
4 - Stop when the drain plug is in the middle of the big vent window.
5 -Using an Alan wrench - remove the plug, letting the fluid drain.

Return plug

Drain transmission; remove cover, and filter,
Replace filter and cover, then refill.

The hint was to use the screwdriver turn the engine to align drain to vent.

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Thanks for the help
Bill Fisher

'86 560SL (186K) - Now a 'classic' : Registered as an Historic Vehicle
02 E430 in the stable
'14 LS460 (Lexus)
- - - - -
'95 E420 (198K) found a new home
'99 E320 (80K) (gave it's life for me as we hit a bumper)
'95 E420 (231K) Sold to a happy buyer, new to Mercedes
'90 300E (65K) Sold to an Mercedes Lover
'92 190E (215K) - retired to the salvage yard
'93 500SEL (214K) - Moved to another family, still runs like a young pup

I personally would never "pry" against the flywheel teeth for fear ot damaging it. I turn the engine with a socket, applying torque to the crankshaft from the front of the engine.

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Jim

I used a remote starter switch a jogged the motor until the bolt was in the right spot. It's easy after that. Use a good 5mm hex socket like a Snap on. Don't strip the 5mm hex.
Steve