This is where the transmission dipstick sits www.youtube.com/watch?v=czDDSwguYR8 If the fluid looks dark and smells a bit burnt, I would suggest not replacing it all at once. Just drain the pan - will remove 3.5L and should be fine for a while. They need to use only 3309 oil. Replacing the whole flu...

Keep looking and feeling about. You want to verify it's there. It's conceivable a prior owner could have stuck it into its hole without latching the spring catch. This'd leave an open hole atop your gearbox. Also, in addition to what was mentioned above, check that the cabin air filter is not solidl...

It's hidden better than the healthy salads in the McD menu, but, as mentioned above, it's there. Try with cold engine. Being the n/a, may as well have a look at this vid www.youtube.com/watch?v=gOx3Q8vqoz4

A new thread was just started today regarding the ATFs

viewtopic.php?f=9&t=87710

From my personal experience I wouldn't use the Mobil 3309.

Yo, Shappy, FYI: Your '99 had the 4 speed. Any of the basic Dex/Mercs (except for the "up to the mid '90's" VERY old one-which is becoming hard to find) worked in your transmission. I have pictures some where of pumping out my '99's transmission. It's fluid was indeed black but didn't smel...