I have a 78 420sel with 190k and I have put about 15k miles on it. The question is should I change the transmission fluid or not. I have gotten two distinct opionions about the subject. I have no knowledge about the service history on this car prior to owning it. The tranny is fine. Smooth shifting - no complaints. I would like to keep it that way. Some say if I change the fluid, the new fluid might cause the transmission to start having problems. Apparently the new fluid might "wash off the good stuff" that is allowing the transmission to work. But on the otherhand, not servicing the transmission cant be any good on it either. I actually had one tyranny shop refuse to service it cuz they were afraid that it would quit working. I also had a mechanic at the local MB shop say something similar. So it seems I am between a rock and a hard place.

It seems to me that if the tranny is on its last leg, changing the fluid might hasten its death which is inevitable anyway. So since I plan on keeping the car, I should go ahead and swallow the pill and change the fluid and live with the consequences. Does anyone have any experience with this senario? What are your recommendations?

Thanks.

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I got too many cars!! Insurance eats me alive. Dave

78 Corvette Stingray - 3k
82 242 Turbo Volvo - Manual - 270k
86 300e 5 speed manual - 210k
87 420sel - 240k
89 560sl - 78k
91 420sel - 205k
91 560sel - 85k
94 GMC Suburban - 90k
97 Harley Davidson Heritage Softail - 25k
00 GMC Silverado 1 ton 30k