Originally Posted by jshadows

Yeah the photos in the ATSG manual suck, plain and simple. I ended up using another manual (link escapes me but it's based on a '96 C220) and the ATSG when I needed a second opinion.

I can say this. If you follow the manual (ATSG or other), things will become clear as you disassemble the unit. It's far from obvious if you've never opened the box before. At least it wasn't for me.

Removal and installation of the transmission is a 2 day job if it's your first time. Installation of seals is quick and included in that estimate.

One manual estimates 11 hours for a complete teardown and rebuild. That's 2 days too, for a professional. I would at least double it for a first time. Your car could be out of commission for some time. If this is not a problem, keep plugging away. I think MB may have a service manual.