What type of transmission fluid do I need?
 

Already did a search, could not find anything, so...

Can someone tell me what type of transmission fluid I need for my 88' 300SEL? The fluid looks fine (pink), but it has a different smell than most other transmission fluids I have smelled, so I am wondering if Mercedes brand fluid smells different, or is this fluild old? My transmission shifts smoothly and fine, but I am unsure of the last change, so I think I am soon going to do a transmission fluid and filter change and not sure what fluid to use. I am sure its in the owners manual, but incase its not (when I look tomorrow), I would like to know asap. Also, if someone knows how many quarts it holds? (Drain and refill only - not a flush).

I am thinking it may take Dextron, OR is it Mercedes brand fluid only?

I know that on my Lexus, only Toyota fluid is recommended.

Thanks in advance.

dexron-II will work

with the W126 series Dexron II will work fine . I use Dexron3 in 300sel.

The P/s uses power steering fluid not ATF .

regards
mak

Pretty hard to find real Dexron nowadays.

It has been replaced by the new "one bottle fits all" stuff.

Thanks guys. I was thinking Dexron. Oracle said Dexron III and I actually have some of that from when I was going to change the fluid in my 72' Chevrolet, but had misplaced it and bought some elsewhere.

Thanks again!

There is a slight viscosity difference between the Dexron III and the newer Dexron VI; the newer stuff being slightly thinner. I saw Dexron III Pennzoil at Pepboys. Also, Valvoline makes the "Max Life" oils and ATF. It's supposedly formulated for older cars, with a bit more seal conditioners, detergents, and slightly higher viscosity. I like the concept; so I run the 10-40 oil and the ATF.

DG

Any Dexron 2 will work fine.

I have had good results with Mobil 1. Its just expensive so if you have a lot of leaks don't bother, @ $6+ a quart it gets pricey to keep adding.