radiator problems on my '87 560sel
 

Tonight, while changing the oil in my 126, I leaned agains the hose that runs from the top of my radiator to the expansion tank (right next to where the upper radiator hose connects to the radiator). It snapped off of the radiator, flush with the tank...no room to get the hose clamped back on. I want to know if there is any way to plug this hole, and also if it safe to drive the car this way untill my new radiator comes in ( a few days). Thanks for your help.
Drew

The expansion tank is part of the pressurized system (the pressure cap is on the reservoir). You run the risk of overheating if you drive without a pressurized cooling system.

If you figure out how to plug the hole, plug the open end of the hose to the reservoir as well.

Sixto
91 300SE
87 300SDL
83 300SD

I would say that any "quick fix" is likely not to hold because the cooling system is under a lot of pressure at operating temp. I have read in other posts, however, where people have used JB Weld for quick fixes such as this one. You could JB Weld the little broken plastic end back on the radiator that way you could still run your hose. Personally I wouldn't do it because I wouldn't want risk my nice MB sitting on the side of the road with a nice plume of smoke coming out from under the hood (plus the subsequent hassle...tow trucks, late, etc), but I guess if you NEED a car and have no other way of getting where you need to go....worth a shot I suppose.

I seem to recall an old thread where somebody made a pretty solid repair by using a schrader valve (tire valve). You could probably dig it up by searching on "schrader valve". (Better check the spelling, I may have it incorrect).

thanks everybody...was able to find a radiator that i can pick up tomorrow morning...already have the old one off....much easier than i thought it would be. Will have the new one on in the morning and hopefully all will be well.
Drew