Yeah, I ended up sticking a screwdriver up through the access holes in the bellhousing and in between the tc and flex plate, then used the whole trans to pry the thing loose.

Selfies with the ex:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CYToheKVAAAiCyB.jpg:large

Now to clean up in the tunnel a bit, then start tossing the new one in.

Any suggestions on fluid? I was dumping valvoline dex/merc (which meets dexIII) in the old one, but I didn't care that much.

What year is it? If it has some age on it I'd suggest sticking with dex/merc

New one is a total rebuild, book says dexIII so I'll stick with that.

Torque converter is filled and installed in the new trans. Took a while to get it to seat fully.

Ugh, new trans in, bolted up and hopefully happy.

Few more bits in the morning before I put the car on the ground and try to drive to LA.

Nice work!

Any Dex/Merc fluid that meets Dex 3 is OK. Maxlife ATF is very robust. I use it in several vehicles and it is wonderful. Full synthetic, so it can resist oxidation better. You might think about installing a stand alone trans cooler to keep this new trans cool and happy. In my opinion that's the best way in addition to 30k mile fluid changes to keep a trans in tip top shape.

It's nice to see another young ham here.

73

New shifter bushings?

I agree with synthetic ATF if you run it hard, better protection. Regardless, your choice meets Mercedes' minimum spec., so with proper maintenance it should outlast the car at this point.

New trans had new ones on the trans, I was missing all of them (surprise!) so I guess it's an improvement?

I'm gonna try and get my hands on new body side bushings, and a few other little bits I'm missing.

The original (as far as I can tell) trans went 356K, if I get the same out of the new one I'll be happy.:D

Clean and lube the linkage below the shift gate in the console and you'll really like the shifter!

Old trans had a rear output seal that leaked, entire underside of the car is 1/8" black slime. I had to wear full goggles while I was under there.

It's done. Got the final little bits in, linkages and hoses hooked up. Crossmembers back in and car on the ground. Filled it up and went for a drive around the block, filled it up again, adjust TV cable, went around the block, checked level, ran another errand, checked level.

HOLY **** THATS SOME GOOD STUFF.

On the highway I'm running almost 500 rpm LOWER than before for the same speed, shifts are smooth, firm, and quick. The pedal finally feels connected to the rear wheels. The trans engages immediately upon shifting.

To say the least, I'm a happy man. Ready for smiles per gallon going down to LA tonight.

Only thing I notice is that there's a whining/whirring now from what I assume is the TC, maybe it will calm down once it breaks in, maybe it wont. Honestly it drives so good I couldn't find a **** to give.

I'll try and do a little more detailed info once I'm on the other side of the state.

Congratulations big relief I'm sure and thanks for the explanation of full googles I had noted the outline on your face pictures.

Awesome,glad to hear it worked out good.

:2thumbsup

Haha,and just noticed you use the same mats I do when working under a car,they help a bunch to keep things clean.