I'm overheating once the car gets warm whether I'm driving or sitting, once it gets too hot smoke starts coming from the back of the engine, I've changed the thermostat and flushed the radiator I doubt its the water pump because I got the pressure checked and it was normal, the front fan which I believe is for the A.C. isn't working I found out it was unplugged but can't figure out where to plug it into, is it possible that is the cause of my problem? If not does anybody have any more suggestions, greatly appreciated

- Heisman

 

Hi Diablo, check you magnetic/viscous fan clutch. If it is just "freewheeling" it's not moving enough air through radiator and around your engine. With engine off, turn it by hand and see if you can feel resistance or if it's very easy to spin. Check the oil level to make sure that is not generated by excessive friction. Good luck.

 

The fan should turn on at a specified temperature like 120 degrees or so, especially when the engine's overheating. Your can also may have a collapsing radiator hose which would restrict coolant/water from circulating properly. If it's overheating at highway speeds you it's likely one of your hoses is collapsing. Also check your engine temp sensor. It may not be sensing a rise in temperature thus the fan not turning on.

 

I believe 1985 500SEL has no electric fan on radiator, only the main one connected to water pump shaft. At least I don't have one on my W126.022 280SE and temp. sensor is for the temperature gauge only.