62sunbeam

Is it really OK to drain the pan, replace the filter and then only replace the fluid that drained like I read in many posts including the Pelican Parts DIY section?

I'd prefer to do a flush but I don't have the $$$$ for 15 quarts of fluid right now given the season.

My E500 4matic wagon has 95,000 by the way.

Thanks

Eric

mcleantmw

I don't think just draining the fluid is a very effective approach.......half the dirty fluid will remain in the transmission and torque converted. See my posting from 2014 and the responses which I just updated today.......should answer your question but others may have other ideas about this issue. For these expenses machines, I don't cut corners and pay the price for periodic services because I plan to keep my vehicle for 20 years (I'm at the 12 year point now with 159,000 miles).

cetialpha5

I think that's pretty common on other cars, but I believe you only get about 3 quarts out if you just drain the transmission so that's not a lot of fluid to get out of there which is why most prefer the flush.

You can also get Shell ATF 134 from a shell distributor. You can find distributors from Shell's website at:

http://www.shell.us/business-custome...r-locator.html

I picked up a case of 12 quarts not too long ago, $57.90 plus tax. Although only one distributor was listed for my state, they had multiple locations.

MustangBoss62

I asked for a Trans service on my 2004 E500- Mechanic recommended just to flush the trans will be good enough, 65,000km done. Is this ok or should the filter be replaced as well? Thoughts? Thanks

kajtek1

Per my observation most of the dirt settle at the bottom of the pan, so by wiping it clean, you get probably 75% of dirt out.
Even running 15 liters of ATF will not get all dirt out.
My favorite way is drop the pan, let the fluid drip overnight, than following day reinstall clean pan, new gasket, strainer if it was old and mandatory new pilot bushing.
Dripping overnight should give you almost full gallon of old ATF.

Donald McPherso

Drain the pan, refill with fresh oil, pull the top oil hose (and extend it somehow) and put in bucket. Start the engine till you have nearly emptied the pan, top up pan again and repeat until the fluid changes colour.
On a similar note. Will you damage the box if you run the engine too long and empty the sump? I don't know but I would hope not as long as it's only for a short time.