Those of you familiar with the MB W212 platform are probably aware that there is no fill plug for filling the front diff, on 4Matic models. I believe the MB method for filling the diff, is by pulling an axle. Consequently, it is not unusual for W212 4Matic owners to neglect changing the front diff.
This guy recommends a method of filling through the drain plug, approximating how much fluid is going in, and quickly putting the drain plug back in. He is a little bit of a hack, as he didn't even bother cleaning off the area around the drain plug, before removing it. But the technique is worth considering.
After watching and learning from his experience, I'm tempted to try something similar myself, as I am one of those that has never changed the front diff fluid in my '14 E350 4Matic. I think I heard somewhere that the front diff drain plug is the same thread size as the transmission drain/fill plug. If this is true, I can use a fill adapter that screws into the drain plug opening, and pump in the right amount of fluid plus 2-3 extra ounces, to allow for loss, while pulling the adapter, and screwing in the drain plug. I would also measure how much fluid came out, so I could verify that I got the same amount back in.
I sure prefer diff fills with a separate fill plug, where it is easier to verify that the fill level is ideal. But It seems to me that this method should work.
What do you think? Would you be willing to do a fill this way?
This guy recommends a method of filling through the drain plug, approximating how much fluid is going in, and quickly putting the drain plug back in. He is a little bit of a hack, as he didn't even bother cleaning off the area around the drain plug, before removing it. But the technique is worth considering.
After watching and learning from his experience, I'm tempted to try something similar myself, as I am one of those that has never changed the front diff fluid in my '14 E350 4Matic. I think I heard somewhere that the front diff drain plug is the same thread size as the transmission drain/fill plug. If this is true, I can use a fill adapter that screws into the drain plug opening, and pump in the right amount of fluid plus 2-3 extra ounces, to allow for loss, while pulling the adapter, and screwing in the drain plug. I would also measure how much fluid came out, so I could verify that I got the same amount back in.
I sure prefer diff fills with a separate fill plug, where it is easier to verify that the fill level is ideal. But It seems to me that this method should work.
What do you think? Would you be willing to do a fill this way?
