SLK A/T fluid change - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

cphilip · #1 04-06-2009, 10:41 AM

You will also need to purchase the dip stick tool.

The fluid can be sucked out the dip stick tube with a Mighty Vac system.

It is a special fluid so be sure to use the right stuff.

There is a plastic clip that holds the cap down that you might want to replace. However its not important to replace it. Can be left off.

rico89 · #2 04-06-2009, 11:15 AM

Here comes my dumb side...I had planned to drain the tranny as with most vehicles, but without a dipstick/tube, where do you add fluid?

Quote:

Originally Posted by cphilip

You will also need to purchase the dip stick tool.

The fluid can be sucked out the dip stick tube with a Mighty Vac system.

It is a special fluid so be sure to use the right stuff.

There is a plastic clip that holds the cap down that you might want to replace. However its not important to replace it. Can be left off.

Kestas · #3 04-06-2009, 01:49 PM

The dipstick tube is there, that's where you add the fluid. It just has a cap instead of the traditional dipstick.

I've read anecdotal evidence that the cheaper ATF+3 fluid can be used in place of the more expensive dealer fluid. This is backed up by the fact that even though the Chrysler Crossfire and Mercedes SLK share the same drivetrain (including the transmission), the two different divisions and dealer networks recommend different fluids for the transmisssion.

Search for more detail on the dipstick. It costs around $40 from eBay. If you're resourceful, you can make one from cable wire for free. It works backwards from most conventional dipsticks. It bottoms out in the pan, and you measure the level from the bottom of the pan when the fluid is 80°C (not completely full hot).

rico89 · #4 04-06-2009, 02:57 PM

Thanks for the reply Kestas, but there is no dipstick tube installed on the SLK, just a plastic cap attached to the top of the tranny (breather vent?). The cap spins but won't pop off with finger pressure. HELP!

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kestas

The dipstick tube is there, that's where you add the fluid. It just has a cap instead of the traditional dipstick.

I've read anecdotal evidence that the cheaper ATF+3 fluid can be used in place of the more expensive dealer fluid. This is backed up by the fact that even though the Chrysler Crossfire and Mercedes SLK share the same drivetrain (including the transmission), the two different divisions and dealer networks recommend different fluids for the transmisssion.

Search for more detail on the dipstick. It costs around $40 from eBay. If you're resourceful, you can make one from cable wire for free. It works backwards from most conventional dipsticks. It bottoms out in the pan, and you measure the level from the bottom of the pan when the fluid is 80°C (not completely full hot).

slk230red · #5 04-06-2009, 06:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gilly

I disagree that the red lock isn't neccesary. If it isn't there the cap does not stay on very well at all. The red lock locks it on there. Plus keeps the inexperienced from putting the wrong stuff in. Rico, you bust the red square head off, then the part that is left in the cap you can push down into the cap small screwdriver or whatever), catch what's left of it and toss it. Then the cap pulls off. But go to a dealer or whatever and for 50 cents you can probably pick up a new lock. Only install it after you are through, they are one-time use. I'd onlyuse the MB 722.6 trans fluid though.
Gilly

Yes, only use the MB trans. fluid.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kestas

If you're resourceful, you can make one from cable wire for free. It works backwards from most conventional dipsticks. It bottoms out in the pan, and you measure the level from the bottom of the pan when the fluid is 80°C (not completely full hot).

For those that are interested in making their own dipstick, here is the measurement.