Mercedes-Benz W123 Automatic Transmission Fluid and Filter Change for 280E and 300CD

One of the less common maintenance tasks performed on a car is changing the transmission fluid. Typically, you'll want to change the fluid every 50,000 miles or so along with the filter in the transmission. There are several versions of automatic transmissions used in the W123 but they are all 722 transmissions. Some transmissions are 722.3 and the new vehicles have 722.4 transmissions. The procedures for changing the fluid and filter are the same but some of the pictures may look slightly different from yours. What will be different are the parts you need, so please look at your owner's manual or run a VIN check to determine what transmission you have as this will determine the filter kit and fluid. We recommend that you make changing your oil and filter part of your regular maintenance.
Get the transmission fluid warm before draining it as this will help get all of the settlement and particulars in the fluid out, but use care that you do not burn yourself on the exhaust while working around it.
Time: 2 hours
Tab: $15 to $50
Tools: 5mm Allen socket: www.pelicanpar..., 27mm, 13mm socket:www.pelicanpar..., funnel, rags, drain pan, Philip head screwdriver :www.pelicanpar...
Applicable Models:
Mercedes-Benz W123 (1977-85): www.pelicanpar...
Parts Required: Fluid, filter kit: www.pelicanpar...
Hot Tip: Put a drop sheet under the work area
Performance Gain: Proper shifting transmission
Complementary Modification: Change transmission mount: www.pelicanpar...
Read the full article here:
www.pelicanpar...

[@vitalmakhdum]

Brilliant. Helped me out with my w108 transmission

[@pelicanparts]

Glad we could help!

[@imadog131]

I guess at some point you should re-install the transmission pan....... Is there a torque spec on the pan bolts?

[@pelicanparts]

What is the year and model of vehicle? I can see if I have that info.

[@stephenduclos9693]

On the earlier transmissions (722.1) pan torque is 7NM. Better to use a torque wrench in inches and convert. I believe the torque for the transmission pan in the video is the same

[@belowfray5251]

Pelican, thanks for a well done video!

[@pelicanparts]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@sunnyoutdoors]

this is the best video

[@pelicanparts]

Thank you

[@stephenduclos9693]

Remove the dip stick first. Because the transmission is a sealed system, it will drain better this way.... It's much quicker to fill to an estimated 1 1/2 pints low and drive the car at highway speeds for about 20 miles, then top off.

[@pelicanparts]

Thanks for the info.

[@terryleebo]

I am looking for the crush washer. What is its size? I don't want to flush the fluid until I have one for the pan and the torque converter.

[@pelicanparts]

With your vehicle info handy, give The Pelican Parts parts specialists a call at 1-888-280-7799. They can figure out what part or repair kit you need.

[@marcosortolani3639]

Thanks for the video. I would like to know how many liters of oil to put in my 722.1 W4B025 automatic transmission?

[@pelicanparts]

Usually it will be 4 -6. But it depends on how much drains.

[@marcosortolani3639]

@@pelicanparts Thanks a lot for the help! The automatic transmission had been out of action for over a decade and drained only 3.5 liters. Two and a half liters from the pan and 1 liter from the torque converter. So I'm going to put 6 liters.

[@chrism3810]

After draining the system, how do you prime the torque converter with new fluid for startup?

[@pelicanparts]

Usually it will not drain totally, so it doesn't require priming.

[@NicoGbasil]

Which way do I turn the the ratchet/motor?

[@pelicanparts]

Clockwise to tighten. Counterclockwise to loosen.

[@NicoGbasil]

And it's not OK to use Dextron 3 any brand?

[@pelicanparts]

Use what fluid is recommended for your model and year Benz. For an instant response, give our parts specialists a call at 1-888-280-7799. They can figure out what fluid you need.

[@Greg042869]

I know someone who's been using "any brand" Dexron 3 for over 20 years with no ill effects.

[@sunnyoutdoors]

anybody in Northern CA that can rebuild transmissions? I have 2 transmissions that need work. Look for a retired mechanic or smart garage person to do it. I can't wait forever for my boyfriend...

[@pelicanparts]

Many rebuilders there. Check with a local Benz shop for a recommendation.