radiator question - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

nestorb98 · #1 08-03-2010, 12:45 AM

My collection of Behr radiators is growing.

They look good...just plugged up.

The question is...is there a way to boil, acid wash, or some how clean the insides of these?

I have a 300TE, E320 Wagon and a 190E, live in Arizona and seem to have more overheating problems than anything else.

All the necks are solid and you would swear they were relatively new if you saw them.

Thanks.

Stretch · #2 08-03-2010, 05:14 AM

I think that most people in the US of A use citrus flush to get their cooling systems clean - I've not found it over here though so I can't actually recommend it.

Over here though there are specialist companies that do it for you - de-gunk radiators that is... may be a look through your yellow pages (do you have that where you are - a telephone book with lists of local companies?) will help.

david s poole · #3 08-03-2010, 10:19 AM

are you saying that you've replaced the radiator in all your cars or that you've replaced several in one car?

anziani · #4 08-03-2010, 12:09 PM

Years ago they use to "rod out" the radiators by removing the upper and lower tank covers. But now that everything is plastic I doubt if that can be done.
Anziani

#5 08-03-2010, 12:36 PM

The tanks can indeed be removed and replaced for rodding and cleaning. Check with your local radiator shop. It might not be economically feasible.

david s poole · #6 08-03-2010, 02:02 PM

today's radiators are made of plastic and aluminum.they transfer heat much better than the old copper and brass and do it in a smaller lighter package.[both good things for car manufacturers] BUT aluminum shrinks over time and temp cycles so won't flow enough at idle.usual life is 5-7yrs.

tjts1 · #7 08-03-2010, 04:16 PM

Aluminum shrinks over time?

nestorb98 · #8 08-05-2010, 01:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by david s poole

are you saying that you've replaced the radiator in all your cars or that you've replaced several in one car?

I've replaced radiators in all my cars...not a chronic problem with any one.

thanks for asking...I see how you were thinking.

Ivanerrol · #9 08-05-2010, 06:31 AM

The weak part is actually the plastic neck where the top radiator hose clamps on. Proper M.B. coolant plays a part in keeping the plastic in good nick so it wont harden and break off.

Interesting to see what effect on the plastic neck by leaving it dry in storage after it has been immersed in coolant for so many years.