While removing the thermostat from my 91 300e, the little round ball/valve fell out & down into the antifreeze in the housing. I will try to suction antifreeze out and then try to find & get the valve out using a magnetic tool. If I can't find it, can I drain it out? I have just "restored" the front end following an accident & I am afraid if I drive the car without getting this thing out I will ruin the engine. I hope MB anticipated something could fall down there and made retrieval easy. Thanks.

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87 300e (white/black; amg body kit)
88 300ce (red/cream; amg body kit)
93 300ce cabrio (white/blue/blue top)
93 300ce cabrio (black/grey/black top)
98 ml 320 (totaled @ 137,000 miles)
99 clk320 (black/grey/black top)