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Old 07-10-2007, 10:37 AM
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Radiator Fluid Question

I picked up a used radiator out of an 89 300E for like $20 (its in mint cond.). I just now discovered that the prior owner used that green radiator fluid in it. I'm going to be replacing my radiator anyways (which was filled w/ that green **** too, probably the reason its falling to pieces), so is it acceptable to just refill with the correct MB coolant, or should I try and bleed the system a few times once I install it, or should I just forget it and pick up another radiator?

Also, is it a big deal if I mix the two types of coolant, the MB one that I just bought and the green ****? I had to add some water to get the car home w/out the sensor coming on saying I was low on coolant. I had planned on changing the radiator as soon as some other parts arrive from fcponline sometime this week.

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Last edited by JEdwards; 07-10-2007 at 10:53 AM.
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Old 07-10-2007, 11:16 AM
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Install the new rad, flush the engine & rad with water & then fill with the correct coolant.
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Old 07-10-2007, 11:18 AM
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I'll throw in my 2 cents. Others may agree; others will differ.

I would flush the radiator out with a garden hose first before installing on the car. This is likely a waste of time, but that's just something I would do.

Next install the radiator and hook up the hoses. Remove the thermostat housing and remove thermostat. Reinstall thermostat cover and gasket. You do not have to tighten it back down real snug. On the passenger side of the engine block towards the back is a 19mm engine block drain plug. Attach a length of heater hose and loosen the plug and allow coolant to drain into a pan. Pour the old coolant in gal. plastic bottles of some kind.

Now place a garden hose in your coolant recovery tank after removing the pressue cap. Leaving the engine block drain plug open, turn on the hose and let her flush for several mins.

You may be able to get the radiator drain plug out and then you may have a hard time getting to it. In my case it's in a strange place, so I always end up pulling a hose off the bottom of the radiator to drain it.

You can use your imagination and fwd flush/back flush a number of ways.

When all of the garden hose flushing is done, I would reinstall thermostat, pressure cap, etc. and ensure system is full of the tap water you''ve been using and go drive the car for 15-20 miles. Return, allow to cool, drain and flush again. Do this a couple of times.

You are not going to damage or corrode the system using "tap water" for a couple of short runs. Driving the car 'til warm with just tap water will help break loose and clean the system.

When you're done you can install a mix of MB coolant and distilled water. Some say to use a 50/50 mix, some say 60-water/40-coolant, some say 70-water/30-coolant. It's your call. Coolant does not dissipate heat well.

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1991 300-SEL - Model 126
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"Fräulein"
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