A side effect of buying an 81 300TD from infront of a Piggly Wiggly, is that things don't fail, they fail catastrophically.
So in replacing my radiator, I have two questions:

Is it a poor idea to epoxy the broken neck of the old radiator back together in order to perform a citric acid flush (Is this even a good idea at all?)

Also, are there any brands to avoid and/or look for for a new water pump?

An epoxied radiator neck will not work. When you get your new radiator (may want to check a P&P) reinforce the radiator neck using a tight-fitting copper or aluminum pipe nipple obtained from your local hardware store. Coat it with epoxy and slide it into the radiator neck.

You may want to try this method to repair your existing radiator but I think it will fail and you will have to get a new radiator anyway.

A complete kit with instructions for the reinforcement is available from m*******ssource.com.

The rad is an extremely common failure item, even on Mercedes that have never seen a Piggly Wiggly, so don't beat yourself up on that count. They can fail when they get old even if you are being really careful removing the hose (voice of experience).

Honestly if the rad has broken and you believe it needs a citric acid flush anyway, you're better to just get a new or decent used one. If no one currently advertising in the Mercedes Used Parts for Sale and Wanted subforum has one listed, put up a "WTB" (want to buy) ad and see if anyone responds.

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Mac
2002 e320 4matic estate│1985 300d│1980 300td
Previous: 1979 & 1982 & 1983 300sd │ 1982 240d

“Let's take a drive into the middle of nowhere with a packet of Marlboro lights and talk about our lives.” ― Joseph Heller, Catch-22

I would use the old broken radiator for the citric acid flush. You dont want to ruin your new radiator by bits and pieces of rust from your engine. Once you are satisfied that you flushed well, install the new radiator.

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'85 300D Cal 280,000 miles
'14 GLK 350 60000 miles