I think I am going to start with the cooling system/radiator flush. I would hate to trash a very new radiator and toss a good new thermostat. I agree with Brian that I could spend tons of money to lower the temp 5-10C and not really have the motor care, but I just know what it ran at before and how my friends SDL runs at around 80-85 ALL the time. SO... I think the flush options seem best, and since it is not all over the place on the temp gauge, then I am going to assume all is good, just NOT the best flow it could have for cooling!

Thanks guys and I will keep you posted... ALSO let me know if you have any other ideas!

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2000 BMW 323ci 96K
1986 300SDL Turbo 421K (head rebuild/gasket at 411K)
1967 250SE with really rare options needs some motor work
1977 240D automatic - gave to little brother, he now has the 'diesel love' is Turbo240 on this forum
1995 Lifted Ford Explorer XLT 4x4 173K (sold)

*** Next year would love a PO 2004-2005 M3 SMG and when a biz deal pays off, a nice used Porsche Cayenne S.

http://www.museum-mercedes-benz.com/?lang=en
http://www.mbusa.com/heritage/classic-center-california.do