chris69

just got 81 380SL
1. When started, after about 5 minutes temp gage shows temp increases until spiking at 120, then temp immediately drops and stays at about 80 and does not repeat-I think the electic fan also engages when it spikes. My mechanic says this is normal - that thermostat stays closed until 120 temp is reached and then opens. Is he correct?

2. The A/C Heat Servo must be replaced and I have found two sources for rebuilt units. One appears to be indentical to the original with plastic shaft casing. The other by German Star has an aluminum shaft which would seem to be an improvement on the original poor design which I am told has a 100% failure rate. Both units are priced at about $450- anyone know if there is a difference in performance?

Musikmann

I would be tempted to replace the thermostat before doing anything else.

sosh

Thermostat problem!! Get it fixed before you create a major engine problem. If your mechanic told you it was normal also get a new mechanic. As for the A/A part, I would stay with OEM (I have never had one fail).

Musikmann

I think the only thing that is "normal" is that (what I think is your auxillary) fan comes on when the temperature gets that high. Looks like 2 votes for the thermostat and another mechanic.