I have a 420SEL with a serious coolant leak, which is coming from the overflow on top of the radiator. I've checked the hose and even though I can't see it I'm sure there is a crack in the little nipple that the hose fits on. My question is what can be done about this short of replacing the whole radiator? The radiator is almost new and has no other problems and I can't see spending that kind of $ just to get a new plastic nipple. (I still can't believe a car of this caliber would have something so shoddy on it. )

Thanks in advance!

I just had the same problem on my 89 420 sel.Make sure it is not leaking from the hose clamp.I used a two part apoxy and it stoped the leak.

John:

If you're talking about the plastic nipple as some refer to it that connects a hose between it and the overflow tank, there's no need to replace the radiator. I purchased that piece from an MB dealer shortly after I bought my MB.

A pro mechanic replaced it while replacing the water pump. I do not know the procedure for removal/reinstallation, but it must not be that big of a task as there was not an itemized charge for it's replacement.

The overflow fitting can be popped out by gently prying it straight up out of the radiator with any suitable tool. The whole job takes less than five minutes.

Thanks for the replies. I think mine must be an aftermarket radiator, because I swear it looks like the nipple and the top of the radiator (plastic) are one piece. I can't see a seam in between. I will try to post a picture.

My oem radiator was molded in one piece.89 420 sil

Here we go. Unfortunately it's not too clear.

Attached Thumbnails

 

I had a similar problem, my tube was definitely not removable, well at least it wasn't supposed to be removable :-)

I chose to replace the radiator as it was 12 years old and the original unit. Some have had good sucess with repairing the break.

I hadn't heard that some were removable, you live and learn I guess.

Matt.

FYI- I took the car to the local MB dealer today, they checked it and quickly said the nozzle was NOT replaceable. The whole thing is one molded piece.

New Radiator= $499.99
JB Weld=$3.50


(crossing my fingers...)

Sorry john420. I didn't mean to mis-lead you. Some MB's have a replaceable fitting. My mistake.

No problem IL, several people told me the same thing. The difference is that the replaceable fittings were an "L" shape, coming out of the top of the radiator, and these came straight out, like in the picture. Live and learn. So far, JB is holding up.

You can tap in threads and install a brass nipple. Works great.