I have a 1978 280 SE. The transmission fluid when checked shows about 1/2 inch above the recommend level when hot. Is it necessary to drain transmission to appropriate level? Would this condition casuse the transmission to leak fluid. We have an E320 2000 but have been thinking about restoring the 1978. It is in really good shape in terms of the interior and paint etc. We put over 250,000 miles on the 78'. It is a great car but needs some care, Any opinons?

Jerry,

Overfilling can blow seals, it's never a good thing for an automatic transmission to be overfull. If it has not been changed lately, drain the transmission AND torque converter and replace the filter. Then refill it very carefully. If you just changed it, carefully pull the plug and drain a little out, recheck, drain until the oil level is correct.

After getting the level correct, don't be surprised if you still have a leak, there could be a blown seal.

As far as restoring this car, I would suggest posting the exact engine in your car. The pro's on this site can tell you about the expense of rebuilding your drivetrain, and tell you their experiences with that particular engine.

Good luck,

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Larry Bible
'84 Euro 240D, 516K miles
'88 300E 5 Speed
'81 300D Daughter's Car
Over 800,000 miles in
Mercedes automobiles