I have a question about transmission fluid and would like some input. I am contemplating putting synthetic fluid in the tranny, replacing the regular fluid which is currently in it.

With that said, it was commented to me that I really should do a flush of the system if I put in synthetic, as the slight mix of the residual would cause gunk. It has also been commented to me that I should steer clear of a flush, as that can potentially cause issues, if the tranny hadn't been flushed and fluid changed on a regular basis (every 30k miles).

Additionally, is there really any benefit to the Mercedes brand of fluid vs. synth's?

Any input is appreciated,

Andy

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'95 E300D 313k miles
http://www.ourfullhouse.com

When I changed mine, I just drained the pan, rotated the Torque converter to line up the drain bolt, and drained it.

replaced the transmission filter, two screws holt it in. cleaned the pan, replaced the gasket, and torqued the pan bolts. It`s only inch Lbs, so don`t go gung ho on them or you will have leaks.

My Haynes manual says
trans filter screws 7nm 5.2 ftlbs
trans pan bolts 7nm 5.2 ftlbs
trans drain plug 14nm 10 ftlbs
torque conv.drain plug 15 nm 11 ftlbs

I washed out the pan, rinsed with brake clean, and air dried it. don`t wipe things down, might leave lint that will get into the trans and cause problems.

Using synthetic shouldn`t hurt anything, the two oils won`t gunk up the trans. If this car is new to you and you don`t have any records of previous services, maybe you will want to do a couple changes before the synthetic.
Look at the present fluid and the bottom of the pan for anything.

I changed ours 12,000 mi ago to syn and it shifts smooth.

Charlie

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there were three HP ratings on the OM616...

1) Not much power
2) Even less power
3) Not nearly enough power!! 240D w/auto

Anyone that thinks a 240D is slow drives too fast.

80 240D Naturally Exasperated, 4-Spd 388k DD 150mph spedo 3:58 Diff

We are advised to NOT judge ALL Muslims by the actions of a few lunatics, but we are encouraged to judge ALL gun owners by the actions of a few lunatics. Funny how that works

NEVER,NEVER,NEVER run ANY kind of "Flush" through your Transmission!!!

(No Need to run a/multiple sumps of Mineral ATF in preparation for a Synthetic
Fluid Change-out.)


1.Make sure you ONLY rotate the engine in the proper direction when turning
to bring the Torque Converter Drain Plug around to 6 O' Clock
(Mark the Damper on the front of the crankshaft with a Paint Stick ,so it'll
be easier next time)
2. No Need to do anything except refill with Synthetic ATF once you've
replaced the filter and Buttoned it back up.

3. Check your ATF level on a Very Level Spot of Ground...With the ATF at
Operating Temperature (drive around for 1/2 hour or so)
4. Do Not Overfill !

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'84 300SD sold
124.128

Gents thanks much for the input. Looking at the engine from the front of the car...clockwise or counter to rotate? I know lame question, but I'm asking to avoid mucking it up.

Appreciated,

Andy

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'95 E300D 313k miles
http://www.ourfullhouse.com

CW as viewed from in front of the engine. The top strip of fan belt goes from passenger side to driver side. If still in doubt, have someone crank the engine while you watch which way it turns. Use a ratchet set to tighten so you can't spin it backwards.

Sixto
87 300D

Thanks much...I appreciate the input gents.

__________________
'95 E300D 313k miles
http://www.ourfullhouse.com

If it has a mechanically driven fan, just turn the engine in the way that makes the fan push air to the engine.

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Ron Schroeder
'85 300 Turbo Diesel 2 tank WVO
'83 300 Turbo Diesel 2 tank WVO
Some former WVO vehicles since ~1980:
'83 Mercedes 240D
'80 Audi 4000D
'83 ISUZU Pup
'70 SAAB 99 with Kubota diesel
'76 Honda Civic with Kubota diesel
'86 Golf
Several diesel generators
All with 2 tank WVO conversion
LI NY