Does anyone have any experience removing the automatic transmission from an 88 300e? We have one last bolt to remove from the bell-housing, it's behind the oil filter and a real problem to get at. Any suggestions?

 

I use a really long extension like 3 feet and put a swivel socket on the end. it also helps to remove the rear transmission mount and drop down trans a bit so you have some room at the top of the transmission. run the extension from the back of the transmission on the top of the transmission to the bolt.

 

Thank you chassis221, that's a huge help. We've spent days on this. Should have it off in a couple of minutes now. Sometimes you can't see the forest for the trees. Thanks again.

Added: The bolt is now off (piece of cake), tranny is now off. Tomorrow the replacement goes on. You saved our butts chassis221. Can't thank you enough.

 

I am having a problem with my 1996 E320. How tough was it to remove and replace the Automatic Tranny?

Is this something that has to be left to the mechanic?

Dean

 

If you have replaced an automatic tramsmission before, it shouldn't be a problem replacing a MB tranny. The one in my 300e (six cylinder 3.0 liter engine) was quite light and the linkages, electrical connections and the rear propeller shaft were easy to deal with compared to some other tranny's out there. That being said, be prepared to spend a lot of hours on your back under the car and working blind a good deal of the time. It is frustrating work. Some people can do that kind of work, others can't. My advice, if you haven't helped others take trannys out, don't do it. If you've helped do other tranny's and it all made sense to you, give it a shot. For myself, the next time I need to replace a tranny, I hope my financial circumstances are such that I can afford to send it to the shop.