DIY Transmission fluid change W124 - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

glenmore · #1 12-27-2002, 05:02 PM

I'm about to change my transmission fluid and have a few questions. In turning the torque converter to line up the drain plug, is there a right or wrong direction to turn it? Previous posts suggest that torquing the bolts is critical. I have a 1/2" drive torque wrench but it probably won't be that sensitive at such a low setting. Should I invest in a 20-200 inch pound torque wrench? Also read about the flat magnet to put in the bottom of the pan. Any feedback on this practice?

TIA

glenmore
1991 300CE

engatwork · #2 12-27-2002, 05:56 PM

Turn the engine in the direction of its normal movement to line up the drain plug. Invest the $ to get the proper torque wrench. It is money well spent.

Mike Murrell · #3 12-28-2002, 05:12 PM

Facing the car from the front, you turn the crankshaft bolt(27mm) clockwise.

Not sure why you need a torque wrench? You're merely turning the crank in it's nornal direction which isn't going to cause anything to loosen.

Many Asian cars have a coin shaped removable magnet in one of the corners of the tranny pan. My '95 Rodeo is one such example. I change fluid every other year in this vehicle and each time the magnet is heavily coated with junk - not metal shavings - just a filmy substance. Can't say if it would help or hurt your Benz. MB didn't put one in the pan, so I suppose they say no reason for it.

glenmore · #4 12-28-2002, 10:14 PM

Mike,

Thanks for the info. I'm sorry I wasn't clear. The torque wrench is for the pan bolts.

Mike Murrell · #5 12-28-2002, 11:26 PM

Glen:

The pan bolts on the tranny pan are torqued to 8nm or 8 Newton Meters. Take .75 of 8 and you come up with 6 ft. lbs.

Some folks make the mistake of applying too much torque to the pan bolts and afterwards discover fluid leaking from around the pan.

You really do not need much torque at all as your pan has a beefy gasket. Be sure to replace the pan gasket as well as tranny filter.

Also - you do not have to bear down very hard on the 5mm allen head tranny pan drain plug and the 5mm allen head converter drain plug. Be sure to use a new washer with these as well.