Home-Made tool for holding viscous fan clutch??
 

Will be replaceing the fan clutch on my '90 420SEL as soon as the new part arrives. Interested in what other members have had success with as a replacement for the MB tool that holds the clutch while the 8MM hex-head nut is loosened. This matter needs to be addressed as soon as the new clutch arrives, and I'd rather not have to order the part and wait any longer than necessary. Thanks in advance, as usual.

Beware! That 8mm hex bolt is on TIGHT! I've been meaning to replace clutch for a while now but haven't gotten to it yet because I just haven't had the gumption to pull the radiator out yet. Take a look at this link:

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?t=221870

for a diary of my adventures.

Abner, I use a small allen wrench instead of the MB tool.

A strap wrench should also work.

I had a buddy hold an old v-belt to get mine off. Then once it was broken free he just turned the belt and I held the screw :)

-Jason

I am very happy to report that I was able to purchase a new viscous fan clutch for my '90 420SEL off ebay for $90 plus shipping. I installed it this morning in less than thirty minutes, and it is working very well. My overheating at traffic lights issue is solved. I had read just about every thread relating to the fan clutch, and was prepared for a long day of removing the radiator, having difficulty with the hex-head bolt, all the usual nightmarish stuff. However, once I got the hood up, and the light on the subject, I noticed the fan assembly was held to the water pump pulley with only four 10MM bolts that I could easily reach with a ratcheting boxed-end wrench. By turning the power steering pump bolt, and thus the water pump pulley, I was able to loosen and remove all four bolts quite rapidly. Once the fan assembly was off the pulley, I unclipped the fan shroud from the top, disconnected the top radiator hose, and gently lifted out the shroud and the fan assembly simultaneously. Removing the old clutch was as simple as removing four 10MM bolts from the clutch/fan blade assembly, and bolting on the new clutch. Replacing the fan assembly was a simple reverse of removing it: no 8MM hex-head bolt to be found, no special tool needed to keep the fan from turning, no problemo, and no sweat. I hope someone in need of a clutch fan replacement sees this post, and has the same good luck that I have just experienced.

that's great... i had to go to the hardware store and get a steel rod and bend it to hold my clutch in place.

we have 124's with the 103 engine..

it's a good feeling not to overheat anymore... ask me how i know..