First time post here. I have a 94 E320 that has some overheating problems at idle, especially if the a/c is on...I have read posts here about the fans up front. I took it to a MBZ dealer and was told the fans are toast but also that my wiring harness is frayed, and that it probably caused the 2 fans to short out. They did point out the areas on the harness that are frayed which did have some wiring exposed beyond the rubber covering. The replacement is pricey...Is there any other avenue I can take? Thanks for your help.

 

The dead harness is very common in the e-class w124 models. You should just replace it IMO, there's no easy way out. For the fans, try to find a used set at a junkyard or a cheap new set.

 

Hi,

Are the wires in the harness sufficiently damaged to show exposed copper?
As Battlecat has stated this is a common problem but sometimes it is only the outer fabric or similar bundle packaging material that has deteriorated, in which case there isn't a problem...at least in the short term.
Dependent upon the extent of the damage why not repair the damaged section. If the damage is extensive you have no choice but to replace unless you are really into DIY.
Strange that you sould have a bad harness and (I assume) two fans all at the same time. Did the dealer say about the fan controller was OK? What about the fuses?

I suggest that you, or somebody on your behalf, should confirm that the fans are dead by applying an independent power source.

I suspect that you may be lined up for a "revenue" opportunity.

Hope this helps.

Stuart