Thermostat rating for 300SDL

[romansek]

I bought a thermostat at an auto parts store for an 87 300SDL which is rated for 85C (Wahler #MER 601 200 00 15). I checked Performance Products catalog which indicates to use an 80C thermostat.
I called the parts store to verify temperature rating and they inform me that Mercedes indicates 82-85C as thermostat for this car. What temperature rating should I use? Thanks for the help.

Roman

87 300SDL 145K
86 300SDL 210K
83 300D 220K
81 300D 140K

[SW]

You know, I ordered and installed the "80 C" t-stat from PP and according to the gage, the temp goes to approx. 87 C before it opens. I'm not too worried about it because with the ac on, the aux fan kicks in around the same temp. You probably do want to get the 80 C t-stat, but I doubt there are any ill effects from installing the 85 C t-stat.

[gsxr]

The t-stat should be 80C. What shows on the dash gauge has no relevance to when the t-stat actually starts moving. 85-90C on the gauge is normal. Wahler is the OEM, so it's possible it might be a good t-stat, but it's awfully strange it's not 80C...!

OK, checking the EPC, that is the wrong t-stat. 601-200-00-15 is rated 85C and is for NON-TURBO diesels (OM601, 602, 606). For the TURBO engines (like the OM603.961 in your SDL) you need 602-200-00-15, rated 80C. I'd replace it. The part store should exchange it since it's their fault, or their computer is wrong.

[romansek]

Thanks gsxr for info. I wonder what EPC stands for?

Roman

87 300SDL 145K
86 420SEL 225K
86 300SDL 210K
83 300D 220K
81 300D 140K
77 240D sold

[gsxr]

EPC= Electronic Parts Catalog. It's what the Mercedes dealer parts guys use to look up part numbers for your car. Very handy program on two CD's. Used to pop up on eBay quite a bit, not sure if they're still out there. If you want one and can't find it for sale, drop me an email.