dadsclk

Has anyone installed a block heater on their W208 CLK? Called two MB dealers, they said that they only install block heaters on diesels. In the past I've installed them on an '89 190E 2.6, then later on a '92 300E, no problems with either, both dealer installed, worked great! Thanks.

JapSpec

yes yes i do. I live in Winnipeg, Canada -50c winters...its a must.
Got it installed at a family members garage though. Couldn't imagine the price they would charge at the dealership for something "they don't do 'cept on diesel's"

dadsclk

Thanks for the reply! Is your block heater an MB part and could you provide me the part #? Much appreciated.

JapSpec

I'll get back to you on Saturday with the part number and prices. I bypass the dealership and go right to their MB part supplier.
Currently away from my baby til then on some Beautiful British Columbia Training
Same car too. 98 CLK 320.

dadsclk

Your help is much appreciated! I just couldn't believe that MB didn't make a block heater for the W208 chassis. Just curious, how do you bypass the dealer for parts? That's a neat trick!

JapSpec

only able to bypass a certain amount of parts as i know a lot of the parts out there you need to go to a dealership and give proof of ownership as well as your DL.
i'll Definatly reply back with the part# and the cost of it....as most of my parts + install are free
one good investment = free stuff lol

dadsclk

JapSpec, are you still going to get me the part no. and $$ for the W208 block heater, I really could use the info. Thanks again, I know this is a busy time of the year but if you can find the time I would appreciate your help!

JapSpec

Sorry dude been out of it from Dental Surgery.
Headed to the shop this wknd to get alignment done and wheels changed over and all that fun stuff for my long haul.
Anyways...From what i seen on the part its attached on a T type connector on a lower rad line. Pretty hefty looking actually. Had no bad starts here and since I live in usual -35c weather, its tried tested and true.
I'll take pics of it when i get the chance and get that part number when the cars on the hoist.

dadsclk

That would be much appreciated, I'll be looking for the info.

Have you seen a device called a "Thermocube", plugs into your electrical outlet, you plug the block heater into it, it turns on at 35 deg. F and off at 45 deg F and was originally used by airplane owners to turn their engine heaters on and off, a really nifty gadget for MB ownerrs using block heater (or battery heaters).

JapSpec

I'd rather just keep it flowing. But that is a good idea for a outlet.
I know a lot of ppl also use stick on oil pan heaters. They range from 29.99-59.99 cdn.
its a orange rectangular pad that sticks to the bottom of your oil pan.

JapSpec

is what its called. A T-pipe that has a plug coming from it connected to the lower rad hose. Its worked amazing

here's a install on a mercedes diesel.
They run for about 29.99 depending on where you get it from.
Believe its a 2.5" connector. I keep it plugged in all night.
I also use a magnetic oil pan heater that just attaches to the oil pan.
been getting -45c weather here and SUPER hard starts when its not plugged in.
takes about 5 mins to get the cabin warm when its plugged in and -25c to -50c.
PERFECT for the frigid north

BLOCK HEATER INSTALL




Oil pan heater

When i worked at a Audi/VW dealership a lot of customers had these installed or wanted them installed.
Ive seen a bunch of TT's and a customer who owned a RS6 attach one to their oil pan and transmission

dadsclk

Your info is much appreciated, loved the pictures, but I still would like to find out if MB makes a block heater for the W208 V6 engine, I guess I'll have to nag their parts people to look for it.

Incidentally, JC Whitney sells a heater that goes into the lower rad hose and also includes an electric pump to both circulate and heat the water, I think for about $80.00 USD.

Thanks again, and stay warm!
Joe Bellia
Pittsburgh, PA

dadsclk

Brief update: stopped @ MB dealer parts dept. they researched putting a MB block heater on a W208, called me back, the parts totaled $490.00, said it could be done if you want to pay $490.00 for parts plus the labor chaarge. Will look at other alternatives. Thanks again for your input.