Thanks Dave,

I have read most of your posts from the archives. The pics of the cracked head a really scarry, which is, in part, why I am so diligently seeking lower temps.

I certainly would not want to take issue with your statement about the radiator. It will probably have to be replaced. But, as you said, it is a PITA to diagnose and the fan was a no brainer. This coupled with the fact that I could try the fan for $60 with a 100 day warranty made this my first step.

BTW, I have checked the top hose for pressure overnight, none, thank God. And I have checked for signs of coolant/oil co-mingling, also negative. I could almost see this going through your mind as you composed you post, and rightly so.

I will get to the bottom of this and solve it. I have driven Mercedes in my business since 1993. I average about 5000 miles per month. I have always bought gas cars (recently V8s) with 100,000 miles and clocked them out. This 300D is a experiment for me. I have been buying cards for $16m to 20m, driving them for 200,000 miles and selling them for $6m to $8m 3-1/2 to 4 years later.

I have fallen for the 124 diesel in a big way and hope to bring this '87 to top shape and then continue to repair it, indefinately. Even to the point of replacing the engine, whenever it becomes necessary. It all boils down to dollars/mile for me. If I can be successful at getting into a reliable car with necessary repairs for $5m to $6m (I'm currently still under $4m in this car) and then spend another $5m per annum to keep it up, I have achieved a lower cost per mile than is possible when depreciation has to be factored into the equation.

This car may have higher maintenence costs than my typical ride but the depreiciation dollars have already been paid by the PO.

I appreciate your comments and I will keep you informed of progress.

BR,

Steve (8C>