How do you replace these easy parts? W124
 

There are 2 things I'm going to be replacing, probably very easy, but wondered what bad things will happen to me if I don't ask the veterans.

First up is the big fuel filter. I heard it's a twist on/twist off. I'm assuming counter clockwise will take it off? Next, does fuel spill everywhere (I use plastic bags when I change the pre-filter, really helps from spilling fuel everywhere) or is it pretty clean to change it?

Next is the transmission cooling hoses. They run underneath the radiator area, and are the hose with that coiled wire around them. I'm assuming it's just counter clockwise to take them off. I'd heard the hoses are not under pressure, so transmission fluid's not going to come spurting out all over me, is it?

Also, how hard to replace shock absorbers? Just thinking about it for now.

Thanks,

Jeff 1991 300d, 118k

Fuel filter: You remove the bolt on top, pull it up & out, the filter is free. The less it tips the less fuel spills out. I prime the new one with ATF (it's already properly filtered), you can get the filter pretty much in place before you pour the prime in it and avoid spilling

Trans cooling hoses? No pressure when not running, low pressure when running.

Shocks are very easy, struts in front, no spring compressor necessary on either end if you lower the hub on a block to keep the suspension from over-extending.

Before you remove the big bolt on the top of the filter be sure you have a new "O" ring for the bolt and if your car has a copper washer under the bolt that could be replaced also.
While the transmission hoses are not under pressure they are lower than the transmission and fluid is going to come out of them when they are removed.