rwolak

Just did some checking and found out I've got a Valeo radiator in my 2003 clk500. The car has 95K miles and not having any problems. However, I'd like to change the radiator and install the Behr radiator.

Does anyone have a step by step process to remove/install the radiator?

thanx in advance.

insame1

I dont have a step by step but chance are you are fine. not all of them were defective.

rwolak

I've only owned the car for 3 months and, after reading some of the comments on this forum, I was under the impression most, if not all, of the Valeo radiators were a problem. I got all of the maintenance records with the car and did notice the cooling system has been flushed twice and the transmission once, under the warranty.

Is this problem something that, if it doesn't occur within a certain mileage, the chances are the radiator is fine?

Rudeney

I think all of the early Valeo radiators will fail based on what happens - a coaxial rubber seal cracks with age. I saw a photo of it somewhere int he forums and it was pretty much apparent it was just bad rubber used. Anyhow, i think you also asked this on Benzworld, and I answered there, but in case anyone else searches for it:

http://benzbits.com/w209/RadiatorRemoval.pdf
http://benzbits.com/w209/EngineFan.pdf

rwolak

Yes, I did ask the same question on Benzworld. I appreciate the two files.

rwolak

Hey Rodney, took a look at the two files you suggested. Just so that I'm following the right process, I'm going to follow: chassis = 209.375, trans = 722.6 (5-speed), and engine = 113.968.
Am I in the right ballpark here??

thanx

Rudeney

Correct!

rwolak

Rodney, I've been digging around trying to identify everything I'll need for this replacement. There are 4 "O" rings on the radiator, i.e., 2 for the ATF lines, and 2 for coolant lines. Is there anyplace I might be able to get Mercedes part #s for these "O" rings? I'm having problems finding them.

Rudeney

A0039971789 = coolant hose seals
A0289976248 = transmission line seals

rwolak

Again, thanx.