ozark1

Bought my first 450SL 40 years ago..and have forgotten a couple things !....Where should the temp. gauge needle be when warmed up and driving ? Mine is showing between the 175...and moves up to the next mark...Just replaced the clutch fan..URO ?? Did not hear it kick in in a 10 mile drive...I could turn it when I shut it off...and I know it's supposed to be free at cold....What is the fan in front of the radiator ? Is it turned on automatically ? Don't remember about this fan.. Car has 84K miles ...Known history..New cat. today with the clutch fan..Engine flushed this week and serviced. Seems to be idling very low...I had it set about 750..FD and warm up reg. rebuilt by Larry 2K miles ago..So..if any experts would give me their thoughts..I'd be most appreciative. I'm going to give the car to my daughter...so I want it problem free...(as much as possible)..Thanks..Jerry...Cell is 870-847-5771...

D Jet User

The fan in front of the radiator goes on with the AC for additional cooling for the engine. Not sure but it may also go on with the AC off if the engine starts to overheat.

ozark1

Thanks..That's ONE !...Where should the temp. needle be in highway traffic ? ... and...what is correct thermostat . for a 1979.? I realize this is asking a lot....but I want her to be as safe as possible when I give it to her. Thought about a new radiator...seems all the old radiator shops are long gone..even getting one recored would be a challenge . Any thoughts on radiators ?..thanks again ..jerry...870-847-5771..

ygmn

Radiator shop in town not far from me.

They are out there just need to find one - Try google might be one on long distance and you could ship it to them

ozark1

Looks like that might be the only solution..j..

ygmn

few companies not far from me who I know used to rebuild radiators that may still do it and can help you:

The Radiator Shop Slidell – Serving Slidell Since 1978
Radiator Repairs | Neill's Radiator Service, Inc | Gulfport, Mississippi | Neill's Radiator Service, Inc (neillsradiator.com)

NAPA? Radiator Repair Service | NAPA Auto Parts (napaonline.com)

I am sure with a good interent search you can find repair or replacement.
How about USEd?
Search Results (car-part.com)