Transmission Fluid
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Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 360
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From: SoCal
2018 GLE350
Transmission Fluid
I just ordered everything for a tranny flush. But now I'm worried I may have ordered the wrong fluid. I purchased Fuchs Titan 3353, is this correct? It had it listed as OEM on AutohausAZ
They also had Genuine Mercedes but it was listed as an Alternate Brand interestingly enough.
Had to jump the gun on this because I checked my tranny fluid the other day and it was brown
Has me a bit worried. It was supposed to have been changed about 18k ago but now I'm not so sure. Smelt a bit burnt.
They also had Genuine Mercedes but it was listed as an Alternate Brand interestingly enough.
Had to jump the gun on this because I checked my tranny fluid the other day and it was brown
Has me a bit worried. It was supposed to have been changed about 18k ago but now I'm not so sure. Smelt a bit burnt.
Last edited by Budget Baller; Apr 13, 2011 at 12:08 AM.
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From: Orange County, CA
GMC - Miata - Trek - P-Car
There is nothing inherently wrong with using 236.12-specification (e.g. Fuchs 3353) transmission fluid.
Even when subjected to mild operating conditions, any ATF tends to lose its virginal pink appearance after several thousand miles - far sooner when having been 'worked.'
Was yours changed “18k ago” via pan drop or a complete flush?
I’ve had good luck with the currently recommended 236.14-specification fluid.
reference
Even when subjected to mild operating conditions, any ATF tends to lose its virginal pink appearance after several thousand miles - far sooner when having been 'worked.'
Was yours changed “18k ago” via pan drop or a complete flush?
I’ve had good luck with the currently recommended 236.14-specification fluid.
reference
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 360
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From: SoCal
2018 GLE350
Great, I appreciate the feedback. The last flush was done at around 95k but the car now has 114k. The fluid was brownish yellow and smelled a bit burnt. Not that strange sweet smell usually associated with tranny fluid.
Is it normal to brown up this quick? Anything I should watch out for? My bro took a look and says while he can't be sure without the dip stick, he thinks it's low. (He clean and used the oil stick from his car) I hate the fact these cars don't come with dip sticks.
Is it normal to brown up this quick? Anything I should watch out for? My bro took a look and says while he can't be sure without the dip stick, he thinks it's low. (He clean and used the oil stick from his car) I hate the fact these cars don't come with dip sticks.
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Joined: Jun 2008
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From: Phx, AZ
N/A
AMG recommends you change the transmission fluid every 39k miles, or sooner if the car is driven hard constantly.
I can't speak to the color of it or the burnt smell, but assuming it was done right the last time you should be fine with only 19k on it since that last change, but for your own peace of mind you can change it again.
Be careful not to overfill when changing the fluid you can ruin the transmission, there is also some fluid in the torque converter, I would recommend doing a full flush to get out as much fluid from the torque converter as possible.
They do sell a transmission and oil dip stick so you can check yourself... kinda pricey though. I think this is the part number... check with the parts department first, they should be able to tell you, or go ask a tech in the back what the right tool part # is.
Dipstick MB Tool #120 589 07 21 00
I can't speak to the color of it or the burnt smell, but assuming it was done right the last time you should be fine with only 19k on it since that last change, but for your own peace of mind you can change it again.
Be careful not to overfill when changing the fluid you can ruin the transmission, there is also some fluid in the torque converter, I would recommend doing a full flush to get out as much fluid from the torque converter as possible.
They do sell a transmission and oil dip stick so you can check yourself... kinda pricey though. I think this is the part number... check with the parts department first, they should be able to tell you, or go ask a tech in the back what the right tool part # is.
Dipstick MB Tool #120 589 07 21 00
Last edited by ruben65; Apr 13, 2011 at 03:10 AM.
Thread Starter
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Joined: Jan 2011
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From: SoCal
2018 GLE350
hmm that worries me a bit. Will have to be careful when filling. So long as the Dip Stick is an accurate indicator, then we should be fine. And I did order the Tranny Dip Stick. It is expensive for what it is. I should get into the transmission dip stick business 
This is what I ordered:
00004330401 ATF, Automatic Transmission Fluid; Lifetime Synthetic Transmission Fluid; 1 Liter Bottle $11.81 9 $106.29
2202400218 Auto Trans Mount $17.39 1 $17.39
140589152100 Transmission Filler Tube; Dipstick Tool $56.29 1 $56.29
1409910055 Transmission Filler Tube; Lock Pin for Filler Cap; Red Plastic $1.22 1 $1.22
1402770095 Transmission Filter $10.04 1 $10.04
1402710060 Transmission Gasket/Bushing/O-Ring; A/T Drain Plug Seal Washer; 10x20x1mm $1.32 1 $1.32
1402710080 Transmission Pan Gasket $8.34 1 $8.34
This is what I ordered:
00004330401 ATF, Automatic Transmission Fluid; Lifetime Synthetic Transmission Fluid; 1 Liter Bottle $11.81 9 $106.29
2202400218 Auto Trans Mount $17.39 1 $17.39
140589152100 Transmission Filler Tube; Dipstick Tool $56.29 1 $56.29
1409910055 Transmission Filler Tube; Lock Pin for Filler Cap; Red Plastic $1.22 1 $1.22
1402770095 Transmission Filter $10.04 1 $10.04
1402710060 Transmission Gasket/Bushing/O-Ring; A/T Drain Plug Seal Washer; 10x20x1mm $1.32 1 $1.32
1402710080 Transmission Pan Gasket $8.34 1 $8.34
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From: Phx, AZ
N/A
I think in order to measure the levels correct the car needs to be idling, not sure if it needs to be in gear or not to give it a load for the torque converter while measuring.
Do a forum search there is a DIY thread some where on this.
I don't have a lift or the tools for that type of job, and rather it be done correct so I just bring it to the dealership.
Do a forum search there is a DIY thread some where on this.
I don't have a lift or the tools for that type of job, and rather it be done correct so I just bring it to the dealership.
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Thread Starter
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From: SoCal
2018 GLE350
I believe we have all the correct tools in order. I personally have no idea what I'm doing lol but my brother is a mechanic. There is a great DIY on another similar Benz forum. Apparently he car must be on and measured while the fluid is at 32c. Other than that it seems straight forward.
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2021 Yukon XL Denali, 2017 GLS450 4MATIC, 1993 Chevy Corvette
I had my transmission service done in January '11 at 43,000 miles at my local indy. Posted about it in a thread somewhere in the forums. It sounds like a tricky procedure I would not want to attempt on my own (luckily for you you have your mechanic brother). Fairly certain that the transmission fluid has to be at just the right temperature before you can seal it back up. Make sure you know what you are getting into before you get started!
I used Fuchs 4134.
I used Fuchs 4134.
Thread Starter
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Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 360
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From: SoCal
2018 GLE350
Yea it seems Fuchs 4134 is what most used. Didn't realize that until after I purchased the Tranny Fluid. Though what I have should work just fine 
Parts should be here by the end of this week (hopfully) I'll keep everyone updated
Parts should be here by the end of this week (hopfully) I'll keep everyone updated
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2005 Pontiac GTO 6.0 LS2 - Blue
Actually... Car should be running in park at full operating temperature for a correct measurement. Good trick to make sure it's close is collect and measure the fluid that is removed. Add the same amount. Let it get to operating temperature. The most accurate way is to use an inferred thermometer at the transmission pan (80C), but IMO not required even though I did purchase one and use it.
Now as far as complexity it isn't that bad. I would never attempt to work on a transmission without guidance, but dropping the pan and changing the filter isn't rocket science. A big problem can be dust particles, or even sand if you live in the desert. Definitely work in a shop if possible. If not make sure it isn't windy outside. Even particles off of a paper towel can damage a transmission. So be very careful...
Now as far as complexity it isn't that bad. I would never attempt to work on a transmission without guidance, but dropping the pan and changing the filter isn't rocket science. A big problem can be dust particles, or even sand if you live in the desert. Definitely work in a shop if possible. If not make sure it isn't windy outside. Even particles off of a paper towel can damage a transmission. So be very careful...
Last edited by gt4awd; Apr 14, 2011 at 03:53 PM.
Thread Starter
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From: SoCal
2018 GLE350
Well we flushed the tranny today and it's running great! We also switched out the transmission mount which was fairly straight forward. (Just used a block of wood and jack to hold the transmission in place) The old one was pretty beat up. The right side bushing was broken. I don't think it's ever been replaced.
The car shifts much smoother and the car doesn't jolt as much when moving from park to drive.. I also had some cruising vibrations which are now gone. Overall well worth the work.
The car shifts much smoother and the car doesn't jolt as much when moving from park to drive.. I also had some cruising vibrations which are now gone. Overall well worth the work.
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From: Ontario, Canada
2002 C32 AMG
Is it ok to use different brands of fluid? I know everyone says to use OEM, but I've got 30L's of Elfmatic G3 syn laying around that I'll never use or get rid of. On Elf's website, it's recommended for use on the C36 and C43 AMG. In my user manual, it's not specific as to what fluid should be used. It simply says "automatic transmission fluid". I know it's a long shot to see if anyone else has ever used this stuff, but I figure I'd give it a shot. I already did a drain and refill along with the filter change about 5 months ago using oem fluids. I was worried about glycol contamination. Swapped out for the BEHR rad the first week I got the car.
Elf fluid is rated for any transmission that calls for DEXRON III. Apparently, it's also approved by Mercedes. Here's the spec sheet.
http://www.jasmin-maziva.hr/_Upload/Documents/1063.pdf
thanks,
Bry
Elf fluid is rated for any transmission that calls for DEXRON III. Apparently, it's also approved by Mercedes. Here's the spec sheet.
http://www.jasmin-maziva.hr/_Upload/Documents/1063.pdf
thanks,
Bry
Last edited by Autotechnica; Apr 21, 2011 at 08:35 AM.
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Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 200
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From: Toronto, Canada
2003 C32
Is it ok to use different brands of fluid? I know everyone says to use OEM, but I've got 30L's of Elfmatic G3 syn laying around that I'll never use or get rid of. On Elf's website, it's recommended for use on the C36 and C43 AMG. In my user manual, it's not specific as to what fluid should be used. It simply says "automatic transmission fluid". I know it's a long shot to see if anyone else has ever used this stuff, but I figure I'd give it a shot. I already did a drain and refill along with the filter change about 5 months ago using oem fluids. I was worried about glycol contamination. Swapped out for the BEHR rad the first week I got the car.
Elf fluid is rated for any transmission that calls for DEXRON III. Apparently, it's also approved by Mercedes. Here's the spec sheet.
http://www.jasmin-maziva.hr/_Upload/Documents/1063.pdf
thanks,
Bry
Elf fluid is rated for any transmission that calls for DEXRON III. Apparently, it's also approved by Mercedes. Here's the spec sheet.
http://www.jasmin-maziva.hr/_Upload/Documents/1063.pdf
thanks,
Bry
Not a definitive answer as the poster user name is Elf. Incremental spec changes are usually backwards compatible. MB 236.1 is the spec for our transmissions.
Wayne
Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 200
Likes: 1
From: Toronto, Canada
2003 C32
Is it ok to use different brands of fluid? I know everyone says to use OEM, but I've got 30L's of Elfmatic G3 syn laying around that I'll never use or get rid of. On Elf's website, it's recommended for use on the C36 and C43 AMG. In my user manual, it's not specific as to what fluid should be used. It simply says "automatic transmission fluid". I know it's a long shot to see if anyone else has ever used this stuff, but I figure I'd give it a shot. I already did a drain and refill along with the filter change about 5 months ago using oem fluids. I was worried about glycol contamination. Swapped out for the BEHR rad the first week I got the car.
Elf fluid is rated for any transmission that calls for DEXRON III. Apparently, it's also approved by Mercedes. Here's the spec sheet.
http://www.jasmin-maziva.hr/_Upload/Documents/1063.pdf
thanks,
Bry
Elf fluid is rated for any transmission that calls for DEXRON III. Apparently, it's also approved by Mercedes. Here's the spec sheet.
http://www.jasmin-maziva.hr/_Upload/Documents/1063.pdf
thanks,
Bry
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From: Orange County, CA
GMC - Miata - Trek - P-Car
^ No doubt Elf blends some worthy petroleum products.
Not a tribologist, although it must be noted 236.1- and 236.5-specification ATF is not compatible with our 722.6 gearbox; only those rated 236.10, 236.12 or 236.14 are.
Dexron® III is suitable for use in MB’s older (e.g. 4-speed) transmissions and most Yank machines.
I use a OTC $1.99-per-quart formulation in the GMC. :)
Not a tribologist, although it must be noted 236.1- and 236.5-specification ATF is not compatible with our 722.6 gearbox; only those rated 236.10, 236.12 or 236.14 are.
Dexron® III is suitable for use in MB’s older (e.g. 4-speed) transmissions and most Yank machines.
I use a OTC $1.99-per-quart formulation in the GMC. :)
Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 200
Likes: 1
From: Toronto, Canada
2003 C32
^ No doubt Elf blends some worthy petroleum products.
Not a tribologist, although it must be noted 236.1- and 236.5-specification ATF is not compatible with our 722.6 gearbox; only those rated 236.10, 236.12 or 236.14 are.
Dexron® III is suitable for use in MB’s older (e.g. 4-speed) transmissions and most Yank machines.
I use a OTC $1.99-per-quart formulation in the GMC.
Not a tribologist, although it must be noted 236.1- and 236.5-specification ATF is not compatible with our 722.6 gearbox; only those rated 236.10, 236.12 or 236.14 are.
Dexron® III is suitable for use in MB’s older (e.g. 4-speed) transmissions and most Yank machines.
I use a OTC $1.99-per-quart formulation in the GMC.
Wayne
