quick question:

what should be the normal operating temperture for these cars? when climbing mountains, is it normal to see overheating temperatures?

I am also thinking of a radiator flush...what is the proper way of doing it without putting any more air pockets into the system...if you do have air pockets in the system, how do you get rid of them..I was searching around the forum and found that someone had an air pocket in there temp sender unit area of the engine and once it was fixed--->(1-2 litter of coolant add) it seriously cooled their engine down to about a good 10-15C...

How hot is it getting? I've never seen over 100 on a really hot day (110F) but I don't have hills or mountains to climb either. Normal temp should be above 85 and below 100, anything over 105 I think is getting a little high although it's probably safe up to 120 or wherever the red mark is (that would make me really nervous). A flush might help, there should be some pretty good threads about doing it if you search,

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1985 300D Turbo ~225k
2000 F350 (Powerstroke) 4X4, SWB, CC, SRW, 6spd ~148k
1999 International 4900, DT466e (250hp/660 ft/lbs), Allison MD3060 ~73k

burp it by idling the full radiator with the rad. cap off until you see air bubbles blurp out. always keep an eye on the gauge for safety and have a rag or towel for a shield in case of wierd incidents.

take care

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1979 300D 220 K miles
1995 C280 109 K miles
1992 Cadillac Eldorado Touring Coupe 57K miles SOLD
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1979 240D 140Kmiles (bought for parents) *SOLD.
SAN FRANCISCO/(*San Diego)
1989 300SE 148 K miles *SOLD