Changed the ATF filter and gasket in my 190 2.6 today. I filled it up with 5 litres of bright new red stuff and got on with a few other things... The car had its front end up on a ramp. About three hours later there was about a cup of dexron underneath the car... it didn't appear to be coming from the gasket but up higher. Was my mistake not starting the car and not filling the torque converter? Is there a vent that fluid can leak out of if overfilled? I have started the car now, cleaned up the mess and checked that the sump pan was on tightly.. and three hours later no leak. I would appreciate any advice on this as I am a bit worried about the gasket ... do I need to start again or was it my mistake for not starting the car after the fluid change?

possible that it was just a spill?

i don't think you harmed any thing by not immediately starting the car up.

typically, most people will put five quarts in.... run it through the gears... check the fluid... fill up to near the line... take it for a spin... then adjust for additional fluid. if there is too much fluid, you can suck it out.

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1989 300ce 129k
( facelifted front,updated tail lights, lowered suspension,bilstein sports, lorinser front spoiler, MOMO steering wheel, remus exhaust,stainless steel brake lines). (Gone)

1997 s320 154k (what a ride). Sold with 179k miles. Replaced with Hyundai Equus

1994 e320 Cabriolet 108k



1972 280se 4.5 153k Owned for 12 yrs, sorry I sold it


[/SIGPIC]

Five quarts wouldn't make it to the vent, I don't think. It will overfill the sump without running. It will also probably bring the fluid level over the base of the dipstick tube which isn't that well sealed. If you have the right level now and it doesn't leak since you have driven it, I would watch it and not worry about it.

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Steve Brotherton
Continental Imports
Gainesville FL
Bosch Master, ASE Master, L1
33 years MB technician

I think it probably did come from the tube... thanks for your reply! The car had its rear wheels on the ground and the front about a foot in the air. It looked as if the fluid was coming from around the area of the dipstick tube.. at least it was wet above the gasket area on that side of the transmission.

Perhaps this should be a warning to others... Make sure you run the car and move the selector immediately after adding the initial fluid charge!