first transmission oil change, what should I use?
 

I will be doing my first transmission oil change on my 85 300 cdt. What fluid brand, type, do you recommend. I have the filter kit on it's way (mayle) Any tips or tricks. How much typically will come out with just dropping the pan?

You need to drain the torque converter as well. It holds most of the fluid.

If you do a search, it's all there in detail.

You should consider replacing/upgrade your K-1 spring.
http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?t=137381

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?t=140495

And maybe even the B2 piston:
http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?p=1048115

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?t=131124

I used Mobile 1 synthetic when I changed mine.
You may also want to add some varnish remover like TRANS-X before you dump out the old stuff.

Danny

Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF

Personally I wouldn't bother with changing either the B2 piston or the K-1 spring unless you are having shifting problems.

Trans-X I do agree with, get rid of all that varnish. You may also need to adjust the trans modulator valve a little after you change the fluid.

Trans Fluid change
 

I purchased the kit from Fastlane used Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF and drained the torque converter.

I wouldn't do the B2 piston, I was just throwing that out there. I would do the K1 only for the fact that it's so cheap and easy to do.

Danny

If the transmission is not having any driveability problems, I would not do the trans flush, it has a chance of causing problems.

If you're changing to a syn fluid, I suggest draining and changing the fluid in the pan, running a couple of thousand miles to get the new fluid through the system, then drain the pan and TC and change the whole enchilada.

A friend of mine in the trans business says "don't shock the system".

Flushing the system can in some cars cause varnish etc. to come loose and cause a problem elsewhere in the system, also is not as good a lubricant, if it's working well I see no reason to tempt fate. If it's having problems, Trans-X or another flush is probably cheaper than a rebuild and does have a decent reputation of success.

Tranny Fluid
 

Mobil 1 ATF, but do not think you will get an extended drain period. Still follow recommended requirement which for a 123 617 engine is around 37,000 miles I believe.

Regards Tom

That makes sense.
Synthetic fluid will clean it up somewhat anyway.

Danny

It's not one of the standard k-1 threads that are quoted, but I gotta add a plug for my contribution :-)

I put it on my web host http://www.hevanet.com/patbob/MercedesK1SpringKit/SpringKitInstall.html because I hadn't figured out how to post things here. I also covered the fluid/filter R&R and included what tools I used. It was mostly for personal documentaiton for next time I want to do it again (prolly 10 years from now after I've forgotten all the details).

The K-1 is definately worth doing while in there. ~$15 and 10min (an hour if you stop and take pictures/ruin your camera).

And the camera is even back together and working again too now :)

thanks
 

thanks, the info on the torque converter is very helpful

I will probably do this job next weekend