I'm doing winter maintenance and updates on my 02 xkr 51k mi (rebuilding calipers at the moment), I intend on changing trans fluid/filter/gasket and I've read many threads over the past 2 years on changing trans fluid and filter as well as other trans repairs. It always starts with remove 20 some retaining screws, well these must have been all xk8 posts since I've confirmed with the jtis on SC models there are 6 clamps on the SC models and that's what I saw while I was checking mine out.

excerpt:
Remove the fluid pan.The harness heatshield upper edge is retained by a clip.Remove the six bolts and clamps which secure the fluid pan to the transmission.

I'm not complaining since it seems it's easier to do (to a small degree) but my question to the forum and those who know the why of Jag engineering is why the difference? I searched some here and the web but didn't find a good answer so I'm asking the question here directly..

 

Your 2002 XKR has, I believe a 4.0L engine, and therefor the Mercedes transmission rather than the ZF used in the normally aspirated version.

 

Google NAG1 transmission fluid replacement. Lots of guidance.
Get the measuring tool +-$30 our cars do have a refill pipe.
DO Not overfill!!!
Carefull with the plug for the electronic. It has o-rings and must be fully inserted or all kinds of codes will pop up after replacement.
All parts available at MB dealers and not expensive.
Research fluids, there are several commercially available inexpensive options.

 

I'd not paid that much attention to transmissions of course till you need to do something with one, I was under the false impression all pre-2003 had Mercedes and they'd switched to the ZF post 2002. Thanks again

Ok I did better homework after the teachers sent me back to school, here's a very good write up on the 722.6 transmission
http://www.benzworld.org/forums/w210...ssion-faq.html