captrivers

The problem with the radiator fluid contaminating the trans fluid is concerning me. My production date was 07/02 with the Valeo radiator. I hadn't gotten under the car to check if they used the old crimping method to assemble my radiator. I am taking it that it was do to my production date. I have 42,000 miles on the car and are wondering since I hadn't had a problem. Can I still expect for this to happen? Was all of the Valeo radiators installed in this model problematic? Can I be one of the lucky ones and will not see this prob?


captrivers

ohlord

radiators up to production date sept 03.Anything can happen at any time so best to have it inspected and the fluid tested.Cheaper to do that then have to flush the two systems and all that jazz.Or worse have to get a new trans.
Don't recall a recallbut the dealer will inform you if it is.
at 42k miles it is time to have the trans fluid and filter changed so get it inspected when the shop does the fluid drain.
ohlord

gnma

I recommend rather than having the fluid tested & inspected, to change the radiator to the updated one. Even if your fluid cks. out ok, that does not eliminate the chance that the flawed-by-design rad. will fail any day. BIG preventive work compared to a contaminated transmission unit. (Unless u're covered under warranty)....

Piranajoe

I have the same prod date as you with no problems or contamination in the tranny but I changed the radiator for the new style to avoid future problems!

b_rashed

trust me go and change it. i had the problem with my car and i went to my mechanic and so far hes changed 4 including mine in the past 8 months.

nikon

+1

gnma

IIRC, changing the rad. in my Supra was easy. Remove top brackets, upper/lower rad. hoses, and tranny cooler lines. Due to a mech. fan, I did not have to remove it. It was VERY easy. Don't know about MB though, at the very least, prolly have to remove the electric fan(s), but that should't be a biggie. Anyone replaced a rad DIY on the W211?

Benzo1999

Anybody get a price on a replacment rad? I'm considering doing the R&R myself.

captrivers

gnma, very good subject.
Can we get some tips/pitfalls/experiences on this radiator replacement. There's plenty of room making it seem painless.

Sounds like a much needed DIY thread for this model with a production date prior 09/2003.

captrivers

captrivers

Benzo1999, PM RBrenton.

gnma

I've just posted a "how to remove rad?" question over in the tech. section. Also ck. this out:

http://www.detali.ru/cat/oem_mb2.asp...SGR=015&SGN=01

Its basically a parts diagram, but these can be very useful in determining how to remove/install the part. I THINK its for a W211. Match it up, and you'll be able to tell. Keep us posted. and good luck!

gisham

just checked mine and it is a valeo A 211 500 0202

any way to tell if it has been replaced by previous owner? can you visually tell the difference between the old defective radiator and one that has been changed out?

konigstiger

You can readily tell by comparing the crimping method depicted in the associated DTB (MBUSA bulletin). PM your email address and I will forward a copy of the DTB. FYI radiator part # A2115000202 is replaced by A2115003102.

gisham

I found a copy of the bulletin. Thanks for your help- I think im gonna just buy an aftermarket warranty for the car rather than start replacing parts that are not broken.