300 SE AT Fluid Check
 

I am a first time Mercedes owner. I purchased a 1988 300 SE in Nov. '08. The owner's manual is in French. I have no idea what it says.
I need to check trans fluid level. Is this procedure pretty much the same as with American made autos--operating temp, trans in Park on level surface? Are there certain acceptable levels of fluid with different temperature ranges? Where might I find an English version of owner's manual and a good service manual, preferably in print form?
Thanks.........

Yes, same routine, clean cloth. Owner's manual from Mercedes, not aware of a print manual for 126, should be a CD version on ebay.

Thanx for the info.

Do Not "Check the ATF" with Cloth
 

Use Old Clean piece of LEATHER (No fibers to clog Tranny Passages!)

Good idea with the leather. Where should the level be on the dipstick? What is acceptable or safe?

Sorry, I meant lint-free cloth as the factory recommends. It's not like you're stuffing the cloth into the transmission - just wiping off the dipstick.