Nissens vs. Behr radiators & Electric Fans

[ke6dcj]

Anyone replaced a Mercedes radiator which has normally been BEHR as OEM with a Nissens?

Are the Nissens just as good, or would you stick with BEHR?

The application is for a 1993 500E, and I'd also like to install dual electric fans.

Anyone got a recommendation for dual electric fans for the M119 engine in a W124 chassis (400E, 500E)?

Thanks,
:-) neil
1988 360TE AMG
1993 500E

[longston]

Nissens radiators are made in Denmark to exact OEM specifications. The only advantage of the BEHR radiator is the fact that they were factory original. Performance, quality and longevity are about equal, but some people have got better performance out of the Nissens. The main thing to look for is the newer reinforced filler neck on the upper tank. The older plastic ones get brittle and break off, so they have added a metal insert.

I am wordering why you think you need dual fans. Cooler isn't always bettter. Your engine needs to operate at an optimum temperature. Cooling it too much can rob you of power, performance, and fuel mileage.

If you are having cooling system problems, you probably need to do a flush with both the MB degreaser, and citrus cooling system flush. Then just be sure you use the correct mixture of de-mineralized water and Mercedes-Benz brand antifreeze, along with the correct pressure rated radiator cap.

[ke6dcj]

The 500E's with the M119 engine simply don't get enough air-flow while city driving or stuck in traffic.

Once the 500E's goes above 100-degrees Celsius, the engine management system will add more retard which drops power about 50HP.

What I'm planning to do is install dual electrc fans, with two independent thermostats and power feeds for failsafe operation.

One fan will be set to come on at 93-C and the other fan for 100-C. Optimum is 85-90 C for this engine.

I have a solution of MB citric-acid and MB degreaser standing by, as well as all new hoses and a new thermostat.

:-) neil
1988 360TE AMG
1993 500E

[longston]

Sorry I can't help you on the fan project. I have no experience in that area.

There is an antifreeze/coolant that is used without water in a pressureless environment that could solve your problem. It was developed for use in race cars.

http://www.evanscooling.com/main25.htm

Check it out. I heard about it from a member calling himself "Running Too Hot"...