This is in regards to a 1984 123 chassis 300D. I’ve been giving some thought to the replacement radiator that I installed. I installed a Behr brand radiator, since it is essentially an OE radiator without the ‘Star’.

I understand that the newer 124 (and 126?) chassis radiators have a metal tube inserted as a reinforcement for the neck. My new Behr radiator for the 123 chassis DID NOT have this reinforcement tube, the neck is *only* plastic like the original one. I am thinking that perhaps this radiator missed a step during manufacturing, or worse, is possibly some type of “second’s” type merchandise.

My Question to anyone that has used a Behr replacement radiator in a 123 chassis 300D:
Did the new radiator have the reinforcement, or did it not have the reinforcement?

Thanks in advance for your replies!

RTH

The ones I've replaced OEM's did not have the reinforcement. Does't seem right.

For the 107 and 126 chassis cars, the Mercedes radiators have a metal sleeve in the upper radiator hose connection. I don't think they ever bothered to do that with the 123 chassis cars. Nothing is missing, just use MB coolant(correct pH, won't hurt the plastic) and don't over-tighten the hose clamp.
Randy D.