Temperature level on C36

[Lordkoo]

What is the normal correct operating temperature on the C36 when fully warmed? For example, where the needle is at?

Do you guys experience flunctuations with the needle moving up and down?

Thanks!

[nokia8860]

Trying clicking on it. It really does work.

[jnolte]

Originally posted by nokia8860


Trying clicking on it. It really does work.

LMAO!!! the "MAGICAL" search really does work!

[jlomon]

In answer to your question, yes the temperature needle moves around. I had a lot of difficulty with this myself when I first got my C280. I had always driven Japanese cars with the temperature needle that moves to just below the middle of the range and stays there unless the car has already overheated. Its pretty much useless as a source of information. Now, the temperature gauge on your Benz actually shows changes in the coolant temperature as they occur, which is useful. You'll notice that the temperature climbs when you come to a stop after getting off the higway, and goes back down once you start moving again, etc.

I have a variant of the same M104 engine as you have. For my car, the thermostat begins to open at 87 degrees Farenheit, and is fully open at 102 degrees. This is considered the normal operating range for the motor, and I don't think there would be a major difference for yours. I have seen it get as high as 110 degrees in the summer with the air conditioning on while stopped at a light, and this made me very uncomfortable until doing some research and seeing that everyone's MB runs hot.

I hope that helps.

Jonathan

[714guy]

mine runs really hot even when its cold outside(58 F) its still above 80 and on regualr days it close to the 100 mark but never goes pass that.

[davis449]

You know that's one of the most useful write-ups on this subject I've seen, jlomon. The long thread on this subject, that I'm sure you would find with the "magical search function" is mostly everyone talking about where their temp gauge moves to and how often. No real reasons. I never knew that was the case with Japanese and American cars. So the Benz has a more acurate and dependable temp gauge, huh? Never knew. Thanks, that explains a lot.

[C280 JR]

i believe my mechanic told me that 98 degrees is ok for a c280

ELvir

[Three Point 6]

My C36 stays in the middle on a hot day(normal for Houston 88-92) and well below halfway in the 40's-50's outside.

There is some European parts maker company that sells a 'tropics' fan kit that is basicly a different clutch for the mechanical fan. I cant remember the name of them but I found some guy in Asia on a Forum a year ago that had success on his C36. It will 'lock up' at a colder temp so air will flow through the radiator sooner &/or more often in stop & go traffic. You could also install an adjustable temp sensor to control when your auxillery electric fans come on?

[Lordkoo]

Thank you for the reply and the magic search!