thanks, I've been doing some reading on the search forum tool and have learned alot...My engine has been well maintained over its life, but after reading your post and the others I found, I beleive my problem lies in the fans, the thermostat, or the water pump fins (worn)...I am going to check these three items and the coolant level sensor as you suggested...I will post my findings here later...

__________________
1991 300CE Sportline
1983 300SD TurboDiesel (Gone but not forgotten)