Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Operator's Manual page 101

300 SL
Checking Automatic
Transmission Fluid Level
Dipstick locking lever
1 Release
2 Engage
Check transmission fluid level with the
engine idling, parking brake engaged
and selector lever in position "P". The
vehicle must be parked on level ground.
Prior to the check, allow engine to idle
for approx. 1 to 2 minutes.
500 SL
Measure fluid level with the dipstick
completely inserted and the locking lever
released (1).
Extreme cleanliness must be observed!
To wipe the dipstick, use a clean, lint-
free cloth.
To fill the transmission with fluid, pour
it through a fine-mesh filter into the
dipstick opening. Even the slightest
impurity may cause operational troubles.
The fluid level in the transmission is
dependent upon its temperature. The
maximum and minimum fluid level
marks on the dipstick are applicable
references only if the transmission
fluid level has reached its normal
operating temperature of 80°C (176°F).
Important!
If the transmission fluid cools down to
20 - 30°C (68 - 86°F), which is the
normal shop temperature range, then
the maximum fluid level will be
approximately 10 mm (0.4 in) below
the minimum mark on the dipstick. We
stress this point because a fluid change
is normally performed when the
transmission fluid has cooled down to
shop temperature.
The fluid level must not exceed the
dipstick maximum mark with the fluid
at operating temperature. Drain or
siphon off excess fluid, if required.
Then push dipstick all the way in and
swing locking lever downwards (2).
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