No, I've not heard of this. I have a 400E and recently replaced the radiator, water pump and fan clutch. the clearance is extremely tight between the fan clutch and the radiator. I suppose your cluch self-destructed and came apart. With the clearance being so tight, it is no surprise.

IF you are going to DIY I recommend putting the fan clutch on before the radiator. I had to REMOVE the lower radiator mount bracket to get enough clearance to insert my radiator with the fan installed, but there is just no way to get a wrench into the end of the fan with the radiator in place. Obviously, I reinstalled the mount once the radiator was in place... That being said, it was overall the hardest radiator I ever replaced. Knowing this trick may make your job easier. My 500 SL was a breeze to do!

Good luck!

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02 S500
92 500SL
92 400E (Sold)
87 300E (Sold)
83 300D Turbo (Sold)
75 300D (Sold)
74 240D (Sold after 20 years)