Radiator Replacement How Hard is the Job?
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 3,784
Likes: 84
From: SCV SoCal
2002 CLK430
Hard is a relative term. I didn't think it was hard. Drain the radiator, unbolt the fan shroud, disconnect the transmission lines (do not lose the brass washers), disconnect the hoses, unbolt the upper brace, remove the plastic cold air intake bits, and it comes right out.
I probably have photos, but I'm out of town until the weekend.
When I put mine back together, the rubber spacer that held the radiator in place had to be replaced. I have part numbers at home, but they were less than $10 retail at my local dealer - which means AutohausAZ could have probably supplied them for $2. After changing the radiator, I had the transmission fluid service done. It was due, and I know I must have left a little in the old radiator.
While the radiator is out, it's a great time to look at the belt tensioner.
I probably have photos, but I'm out of town until the weekend.
When I put mine back together, the rubber spacer that held the radiator in place had to be replaced. I have part numbers at home, but they were less than $10 retail at my local dealer - which means AutohausAZ could have probably supplied them for $2. After changing the radiator, I had the transmission fluid service done. It was due, and I know I must have left a little in the old radiator.
While the radiator is out, it's a great time to look at the belt tensioner.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,273
Likes: 129
From: Orlando, FL
2015 GL550 4matic
On scale of 1-10 in car repairs, I give it a 2. Pretty easy stuff. Good note on not losing the copper washers, they are strange size, and can't be found locally. Luckily I finally found it in the Crack of the driveway after searching a few stores with no luck.
With the radiator out, there is lots of stuff that could be checked and replaced for maintenance. Belt, tensioner, definitely the top plastic small pulley, it's $5-10 and the only reason I ever had to tow the car when it snapped. Maybe thermostat and hoses are a good idea. Check for play or noise in all the pulley bearings. Water pump replacement really not that hard at this point.
I quickly capped the trans lines, then squeezed in a few ounces of fluid at the end to account for loss.
With the radiator out, there is lots of stuff that could be checked and replaced for maintenance. Belt, tensioner, definitely the top plastic small pulley, it's $5-10 and the only reason I ever had to tow the car when it snapped. Maybe thermostat and hoses are a good idea. Check for play or noise in all the pulley bearings. Water pump replacement really not that hard at this point.
I quickly capped the trans lines, then squeezed in a few ounces of fluid at the end to account for loss.
