Fluid changes

[mbzman]

Hi guys, I'm going to be servicing my '89 300CE in the next couple of weeks to get it ready for winter. I'm going to be changing the transmission fluid and filter but have a few questions. Firstly, how can I get most of the fluid out? I believe there is a drain on the torque converter, correct?

Do many of you run synthetic fluid in your older Mercedes' transmission without any problems? If so, what brands do you recommend? I'm also thinking of going with a thinner grade of oil, possibly a 5W-40 Rotella as opposed to the 15W-40 that is in the car now. How does the M103 take the thinner weights? I have had the top end and head gasket replaced so I'm not concerned with oil leaks, at least not yet...