Not coming up to temperature
 

Okay, here is the deal. 1985 280 sl. Obviously gray market. I noticed early last spring that the car was not coming up to temperature when it is colder outside. I figured it must be a stuck thermostat, so I replaced it. Sure enough, there was all kinds bits jammed in it. Replaced it with an 80 c version. It seemed to do just fine, but there were no more cold snaps after I replaced it, so the lowest temps it saw were in the high 60s. Car never overheated during the very hot summer.

Now, first cold snap of the season, and it was 38 F this morning. Car will not get past around 50 c. Heat was warm enough for this morning, but I am concerned with the car running so cold, not to mention the lack of heat when it gets much colder. I haven't had this sort of problem with this car in the past. It would usually run in the 70 - 75 c range in the cold.

Any suggestions will be appreciated.

Glenn Swartzfager
1985 280sl

Hmmm.... When you replaced the thermo, did you flush and clean the system? If not, perhaps some more, what did you call it, "bits jammed in it..."

Otherwise, I would have to suspect the new thermo as questionable. I am not aware if the 6cyl engines utilize a bypass arrangement for water flow like the V8's, so ambient temp may have a greater affect on the 6cyls.

Yes, I did flush it out and put the pink stuff in it. Perhaps I should flush it again and pull the thermostat just to check it again.

While you are at it, would it be adviseable to replace the temp sending unit and flush the heater hoses and core. Maybe just back flowing the hoses with a garden hose would push any buildup out. :confused:

how to raise heat in radiator (when needed)
 

If all else fails, just for winter use, try ol time fix: put cardboard in front of radiator and cut to fit heat range. good luck, Abe G

I would check the accuracy of the temp gauge on the car. If it is accurate, it may be possible that you got a defective thermostat. You can always boil the thermostat in a pot of water with a thermometer to check the accuracy of it.

Hey Glenn, a little off topic, but how's your interior looking these days?

Rich Mayer
82 500 SL