722.6 Trans fluid change with fluid evacuator?
 

Is it possible to changing the transmission fluid in the 722.6 transmission with a fluid evacuator (like one you would use to suck the oil out of the top of the engine)?

The reason I ask is my 2002 E430 doesn't have a drain plug on the torque converter. If you use a fluid extractor will it be able to suck up the fluid in the pan and the TC?

I would still plan on dropping the pan and changing the filter.

If the fluid will not drain down of the TC how do you expect it to go up? Surprised there is no drain plug. Its weird when they do not install them. Risky, but I have heard of people adding them since its easy to do.

The fluid will NOT drain from the converter, so the extraction system won't help much.

Drain plugs on the torque convertor of the M112/M113 were eliminated in MY2000.

Two options are: 1) 'solution by dilution' - repeatedly drain and refill the transmission (about 4 l) over a period of time. Pricey but easy to do or 2) have a dealer or indy use a fluid extraction machine.

I think that the important thing is to inspect the bottom of the pan for debris. A little fine grit is acceptable but anything bigger is cause for concern.

You can use the extractor to mostly empty the transmission pan before dropping it to change the filter. I find that easier and less messy than draining the pan using the drain fitting.

Here's a link to a recent discussion of how to fully change 722.6 fluid: linky It's actually pretty easy to DIY a single, complete 1-time fluid change on the 722.6. You do have the dipstick tool, yes?