For decades now, every Mercedes-Benz (the D in DC) with an automatic transmission has come with a drain plug in the torque converter. Simply remove a small cover plate in the bell housing and tap the engine until the plug comes around. You wouldn't believe how much fluid is in there! I would gladly pay $20 for this $2 upgrade to make ATF changes much more complete. Any DC spies listening in? And while you're at it, how about a drain plug in the pan?

But what do we do in the meantime? Here is an approach I am considering for my new truck when I get it. At the first engine oil change, install a drain plug in the transmission pan. At every subsequent oil change, drain and refill the pan. This way the fluid will always be fairly fresh. It's sort of like replacing the fluid as you use it. Of course the filter still needs to be replaced as before. Hint for DC: an external spin on filter like Ford has would be appreciated.

The only other safe alternative I can think of is those external flushing machines which tie into the cooler lines, but that service runs about $100. And while I trust the machine, I don't trust the people who operate them.

Please let me know what you think about my bright (?) idea. Thanks!

 

I'll take drain plugs, and some zerk fittings too!

Mike

 

The machine does the work.all the tech does is the hook up and if its not correct it LEAKS all over HIS bay floor.What is THERE not to TRUST.Get it flushed.

 

Because they don't replace the filter when they do the flush. And if your not careful, of the yo-yo's will run regular Dextron/Mercon and NOT ATF+4......which will kill your tranny.

Remember....just because they have a wrench in hand, doesn't mean they know what the heck they are doing......especially at these Jiffy Lube/EZ Lube places.

 

Easy enough to make sure its ATF+4 or take it with you if its a independent shop.One of the reasons for the flush machines was to STOP dropping the pan every service.On trucks we suggested filter at 60k if towing a lot.If not at 90k same as autos.Did THOUSANDS like this.Stopped RECHECKS on pan leaks etc.Some auto's trucks the filters are only done on a major repair anyhow.I do my own other cars,truck this way(use amsoil).I have stated this before,ITS the only service to a trans that I had customers comment they NOTICED a differance in shift quality etc.Did companys with fleets of Dodge trucks like this.Mail Jeeps also.The trucks that we serviced like this had a fraction of major repairs compared to the ones that JUST had a filter and 4 to 6 qts of fliud replaced even if they were serviced more often then the flush only.

 

That's the reason all reputable shops carry garage insurance, too.
Greg

 

Had to get my digs in on the “AUTO” tranny. A guy that works on them all the time, drives a stick!!!

 

Wanted a 48re!! Wanted a SRW!! The deal they made me on this truck was too good to pass up.Mine was on THE LOT.Not ordered.Did want 4x4.I've grown to like it AND now as my wife says we CAN"T COMPLAIN we don't have enough truck to hook to just about anything.Fenders still make me nervous in a tight squeeze.Like the nv5600 for towing heavy more then I ever thought I would.In the begining I thought it was THE WORST manual shift I had ever driven.Buts its ok now after loosened up etc.

 

Hounddog....Have you ever driven a Chevy or Ford manual trans????? With a Diesel??? Trust me...the nv5600 is the best going right now!

 

Oh I know.I like it now once it kinda loosened up.Much prefer towing with the six shooter over a auto.It was one stiff manual in the begining.Like the dully over a srw once I got use to it.I do WANT some 19.5 Ricksons.