Type of ATF for '96 W210 4-speed auto?

[jdoyle]

A few years ago, I changed the ATF and filter in my '96 E320 by removing the pan and replacing the filter and gasket. That allowed me to replace about 3.5 quarts of ATF, for which I used Mercedes fluid purchased at the dealer. I have since learned (from this board) that I should have drained the converter as well, and I intend to do that this time. When I tried to buy more fluid from MB, they tried to sell me the $20 per quart synthetic stuff, which I'm sure is for the new 5-speed "sealed" units. When I questioned their choice, they responded that this is what they use for Mercedes, but I could use Dexron 3 in my older tranny. Is that true? Do you think I'll be able to find the MB stuff anywhere? I have a few quarts of this and would prefer to replace the MB fluid with MB fluid. I apologize in advance for what may be a naive or obvious question to the regulars here, but I'm stumped and the dealer is of no help. Thanks!
John

[WRM]

AFTER WORKING FOR DEALERS FOR 6 YEARS, I NEVER ENCOUNTERED MB TRANSMISSION FLUID. WE ALWAYS USED DEXRON 3.

[Gilly]

In January 1996 the E420 (V8) got the 722.6 transmission, and in August 1996 the other E class cars got the 722.6 (I would assume they were all 1997 models at that time).
Your car has the 722.3 transmission, in that you use DexronIII/Mercon, any brand should be fine. The 722.6 uses the transmission oil you get at the dealer, it is pretty pricey, should be closer to $15/qt.
Gilly

[jdoyle]

Thanks, all! I'm going to use up the remaining MB branded fluid I have on hand and make up the difference with Castrol Dexron III, of which I also have a supply. That's probably what's in the MB bottles anyway!

[Gilly]

OK, if you bought the expensive MB stuff, I don't think it should be used in the transmission you have. That is NOT DexronIII/Mercon, it's some synthetic stuff made by Shell in Germany. The only ATF in Mercedes containers that I've seen is the stuff for the 722.6.
Gilly

[jdoyle]

Thanks, Gilly. The stuff I bought did not appear to be the synthetic stuff. It was in a blue bottle with a white top, and as I recall was about $5 a bottle -- unlike the $20 they wanted to charge me for the synthetic (silver quart bottle). I did use it for my 3.5 quart change two years ago with no ill effect. I guess if it's Dexron, it would be marked as such, wouldn't it? I'd just as soon put in all one brand though, so maybe I'll use these four quarts in something else.
John

[jdoyle]

My last question: Do I have to do anything special when refilling to ensure that the torque converter gets filled or just add fluid through the dipstick tube? I was just wondering if I had to start the engine or anything to pump fluid into the converter. Again, sorry about the naive question, but these automatic transmissions are black magic to me, other than the most simple kinds of maintenance. Thanks!

[Gilly]

John:
The oil can only be added down the dipstick tube, go to a grocery store and buy a small plastic funnel to do this. It'll go slow.
Prior to starting the engine, put in 3 quarts, then start the engine and add the remainder.
Gilly