Mine has sprang a slow leak where the plastic tank meets the metal neck for the tank cap. Is this a common MB fault? Is it safe to drive the car in this condition?

 

replace the cap.

lack of pressure inside the cooling system will make the water boil and cause overheating.

 

I replaced the cap but found that it's actually the tank neck (plastic with metal insert for the cap to latch on to) that's leaking so I ordered the newer (post 1996) expansion tank - the pre 1996 coolant tank is not available. Parts dealer said it's a common MB fault - probably reason they updated to the newer expansion tank.

 

Hey Al, do you have any special procedure to replace the expansion tank? As it is connected to the radiator - do you have to flush the coolant? Any special connectors to worry about? A bit hesitant to do this myself as I have not seen the new tank and there could be additional/fewer connections.

 

you only need to be careful of that overflow outlet which the hose #5 is attached. it can easily break and not replaceable.

if it's not very hot, i just remove it directly without flushing.

it's not that difficult replacing it because you got good visibility of everything from the top.

seems you really are restoring the car to it's "good as new" state?

 

Thanks! What's this hose #5? Yes, that's the idea - to restore it to 'as new' and original condition.

 

jeez, i forget to attach the [sm=smiley35.gif] image

i'll repost it next week.

sabado na kasi, at medyo pahinga (kahit na maghapon na walang ginagawa

 

Ok thanks. the new tank is arriving next week.

 

Hey Al, can you post the diagram for the R129 coolant expansion tank - specifically hose #5. Also, I noticed that there is another coolant tank behind the right fog lamp next to the horn? Is this some sort of overflow tank?

 

welcome back!

tagal mong nawala ah

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