There is a rubber strip over the radiator, covering the condenser, what is that for? It is only held in place very loosely and it came off from time to time now. Can I just get rid of it? Does it server any meaningful function?

Don't know what it's for, but mine came from the factory with the loose end towards the firewall. After my first trip to the dealer for service the tech turned it around and tucked it under the painted metal behind the grill. Seems to stay in place better that way. If it wasn't there I don't think it would make any difference.

first time I noticed it, it already scratched the big fan guard. I was glad it didn't get into the blades. I turned it around and reattached it exactly like what your tech did, but I checked this morning, it is loose again(about one third of the rubber is detached) I am thinking to get rid of it before it causes some serious damage...

That piece looks like it has something to do with airflow and/or containing the heat generated by the radiator and condenser.

That just my guess.

IMHO, I think it is there to help force the air go though the radiator instead of around it. Since I live in warm and fuzzy florida I kept it. Some folks suggest applying some silicone glue (weather strip glue type) to keep it in place.

my $0.02

__________________
'02 C240
'00 LR Discovery
'72 280SE
'67 280SL

---past---

'79 280E sold (RIP)
'86 300E sold
'87 300SDL sold
'90 Laforza sold
'95 320SE sold
'98 ML 320 (sold)

I removed the rubber thing last night and it seems it reduced the strange noise I had. My theory is that the radiator vibrates and generates that noise; the rubber strip amplifies it.

It's offical job is to keep the air flowing through the radiator instead of around it. Got to be honest though, only see 1 out of 3 still intact on cars coming through the shop.