What type ATF.

[Glenn Smith]

Wishing to change ATF in 2000 c230k with tipshift gearbox, is dexron 111 ok?
Mercedes dealer unable to give me spec req. I have noticed an MB spec on the containers of most ATF,s but not sure whether this is correct for my car.
Also, whilst I'm here, I have some play in the steering box with the wheels turned, does anyone know the limits? should I adjust or leave well alone?

 

[television]

Also, whilst I'm here, I have some play in the steering box with the wheels turned, does anyone know the limits? should I adjust or leave well alone?

That's normal, the play compensator only works in the ahead possition.

Malcolm

 

[Glenn Smith]

Thanks, but there must be a limit to the amount of play? I think mine is ok though, any ideas on the ATF to use?

 

[Parrot of Doom]

Take the car to a dealer, they'll read the VIN and sell you the appropriate ATF. I've heard rumours of horror stories when using the wrong ATF.

Mine cost me about £8 a litre for 7 litres.

Oh, and the bottles don't give anything away

 

[Glenn Smith]

Determined not to do that, only as a last resort, found now that my dealer uses a shell ATF ref.3403 ml15 in their workshop. Oil to the correct spec must be available elsewhere, as far as I know Mercedes don't make transmission oils. If the bottles of merc stuff doesn't have a spec does it have a part no? or an MB spec. such as MB 236.1 or similar?

 

[Stevie A]

I would get Castrol ATF type 3. If you go into Halfrauds it will have a list of cars with compatible ATF to make sure.

 

[Glenn Smith]

Tried halfrauds, there list says see manual for just about all merc autos. Handbook doesn't mention type and haynes manual just says ATF.

 

[Glenn Smith]

OK, this is what I have found out so far, my local MB shop uses shell ATF 3403 m115, which meets MB 236.1, MB 236.1 is, I believe, correct for my car?
Dexron 111 also meets this spec, can't see a good reason for not using an oil that meets or exceeds the manufactures spec. Now I can hunt round for the cheapest supplier, or can I?

 

[oilman]

The correct oil is indeed MB236.1 and a DIII ATF.

http://www.opieoils.co.uk/performance_lubricants/pdf/fuchs/TITAN_ATF_4000.pdf

Cheers
Simon

 

[230K]

Hi

If it was me i would use the MB part no. A001 989 21 03 10 and nothing else in your electronic box but then i am fussy.

230K

 

[oilman]

What is this oil?

Cheers
Simon

 

[television]

The three listed for the 5 speed electric box 772.5,6,7,8,9 are,

ATF specification 236.10
MB 236.10 ATF A001 989 2303
MB 236.10 ATF 001 989 2103
Shell ATF 3403-M 115


Some other oils are

Front axle 4matic 85W-90,90
Rear axle standard diff 85W-90,90
Limited slip diff 85W-90
Non power steering 85W-90
Manual gearbox 717.4 / 716.6 75W-80W


Malcolm