I am about to do a tranmission service on a 1989 420SEL, 228k KM. Last Sunday I pulled a little ATF out of the fill pipe and it looked a murky red although it was alledgedly changed 12K KM ago. It did smell like tranny fluid, no burnt smell.

I plan on dropping the pan then draining the torque converter. If the converter drain plug is not visible, which direction should I turn the TC? Also, how do I turn the TC? Is there a washer on the TC plug that should be replaced? Should I have a new plug ready, in case the existing one is rounded? What size of wrench do I need for removing the TC plug?

Is dextronIII/mercon the right fluid? I guess I'll need about 8 litres of fluid?

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1989 420 SEL

Turn the TC in the direction of engine rotation, with a 27mm socket on the crank bolt, remote starter switch, or short blips of the ignition. And yes, replace all the aluminum washers, $1.50 at your local dealer. The tranny holds 8-9 quarts, and use a good quality ATF, i use Chevron ATF.

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1984 380SL-driving and service privileges.