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Starter Replacement Scope Creep: 6.9 Transmission service

Started by Mattr, 17 May 2020, 09:24 PM

Mattr

So, in my long-running battle with my starter, I realized that probably the easiest way to get access to the starter bolt I can't get a wrench on is one of two things: disconnect the exhaust from the headers, or disconnect the transmission line that runs right next to the starter, which will give that line some 'play' so I can get a wrench on the bolt.

Of the two, the transmission service was already on my docket. I was just wanting to wait until the starter was done because, well, one project at a time.

Since it now looks like it'll be necessary, does anyone know:
1) Which bolt to remove to (properly) drain the transmission? I suspect "any" will work, but I know some don't drain fully/properly if you don't use the correct bolt.
2) if this looks like the parts for replacing the filter/gasket? RockAuto says they are, but I'm a bit reluctant...
https://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo.php?pk=478747&cc=1367580&jsn=2162
1976 450SE 6.9 FrankenBenz (#2288?)
1977 450SEL 6.9 #2333

daantjie

Matt I also had to remove the transmission fill tube, this is what you are seeing there I am assuming.  I removed the whole filler tube, there is a hold down bracket at the back of the motor, and then of course you need to also remove the coupling on the pan, and be ready to catch a lot of fluid.  Then remove the pipe and dipstick as a unit, this will give you more room to get a socket on there.

Then of course you can drop the pan and change the filter.  I only use Mann filters personally on the transmission, I simply do not trust Meyle etc brands on a critical piece of equipment such as a trans filter.
Daniel
1977 450 SEL 6.9 - Astralsilber

TJ 450

Yep, the dipstick tube is the only way on most  116s. On the 6.9 though it may be better to use the other front pump line out the side of the pan if yours isn't a Euro setup. This is a bit lower I think. Unfortunately there isn't a pan drain plug like on earlier and later models.

Draining the torque converter is also important.

Tim
1976 450SEL 6.9 1432
1969 300SEL 6.3 1394
2003 ML500

Mattr

Quote from: daantjie on 17 May 2020, 11:18 PMI only use Mann filters personally on the transmission, I simply do not trust Meyle etc brands on a critical piece of equipment such as a trans filter.
Do you've a part number for the Mann filter, by any chance?
1976 450SE 6.9 FrankenBenz (#2288?)
1977 450SEL 6.9 #2333

daantjie

Daniel
1977 450 SEL 6.9 - Astralsilber

raueda1

Quote from: TJ 450 on 18 May 2020, 09:42 AM
Yep, the dipstick tube is the only way on most  116s. On the 6.9 though it may be better to use the other front pump line out the side of the pan if yours isn't a Euro setup. This is a bit lower I think. Unfortunately there isn't a pan drain plug like on earlier and later models.

Draining the torque converter is also important.

Tim
How on earth do you get to it?  As I recall the TC is hidden behind the flywheel/flex disk/whatever-it's-called.
-Dave
Now:  1976 6.9 Euro, 2015 GL550
Before that:  1966 230S, 1964 220SE coupe, 1977 Carrera 3.0

daantjie

There is drain bolt which you can access through the slats at the bottom of the bellhousing.  I think from memory it's a 5mm hex.  You have  to rotate the motor until it becomes visible of course ;)
Daniel
1977 450 SEL 6.9 - Astralsilber

PosedgeClk

Yep, I call that "starter roulette." My 6.9 does not have the screwdriver pry marks on the bottom, so it appears that someone took it to a mechanic who had a helper. I used a remote camera and turned the engine at least a dozen times before the drain plug in the torque converter was aligned with the hole.
1979 450SEL 6.9

PosedgeClk

1979 450SEL 6.9

daantjie

Why not just turn the crank by hand?  I guess you need a helper for that, so if you are solo then you need "Starter Roulette" ;D
Daniel
1977 450 SEL 6.9 - Astralsilber

TJ 450

It's easy enough to do it by yourself, it takes a bit of time and patience though... best done with the spark plugs removed so you don't fight the compression.

Tim
1976 450SEL 6.9 1432
1969 300SEL 6.3 1394
2003 ML500

raueda1

-Dave
Now:  1976 6.9 Euro, 2015 GL550
Before that:  1966 230S, 1964 220SE coupe, 1977 Carrera 3.0

Punker

1978 Mercedes 6.9 # 4616 - black/black leather
BMW R 25/3

ptashek

With the transmission in neutral, the converter can be easily rotated with a plastic/wooden wedge or wide flat screwdriver. No need to crank the engine.
1993 "Pearl Blue" W124 280TE
1988 "Arctic White" W124 200T
1979 "Icon Gold" W116 450SE

PosedgeClk

I get that, and the guy who sold it to me is a mechanic who has been working on these things for 40 years or so, and he made the same suggestion. He said that I would probably see marks on the torque converter from a flat head screwdriver, but I didn't, and I didn't want to leave the signs of a Tennessee redneck on the converter and on the edge of the guard. The guard looks like cast aluminum anyway, and I don't like touching the stuff.
1979 450SEL 6.9