Recently the hose "collar" (for lack of a better word) was sheared from the thermostat housing. The housing was the plastic version that has been superceeded by a metal version. I replaced the housing with the new model and replaced the thermostat too. I'm concerned about pressure levels. The radiator side is still plastic and I'd like to prevent another breakdown.

What would cause pressure levels to shear the collar off?

Would flushing the cooling system do any good?

What else could I look into?

Thanks for any response.

Kevin Moran
1988 300E 155K

Yes the radiator "neck" can break off just as the t/stat housing did. There isn't much that can be done to keep plastic parts from breaking. After 1000+ heat cycles plastic parts become brittle. The later versions have a metal insert inside neck.

The partshop on this site sells the updated radiator. I have NEVER seen the updated ones break. The only radiators that break have no insert in the neck. They will break while driving and cause damage. Be sure not to overtighten the clamps (always use the factory clamps)

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