Recently, a proud owner of a classic 1985 Mercedes 190e 2.3 8V Grey Market edition, with a respectable 105k miles, encountered a common yet concerning issue: overheating. Initially, the problem seemed related to the transmission, leading to the replacement of coolant lines, filter, and gasket. However, the overheating persisted, pushing the temperature gauge past 85 degrees Celsius in traffic.
Mercedes 190E front quarter view, highlighting its classic design.
Upon inspection, the main cooling fan, a large, five-bladed yellowish component, was operational but noticeably slow. It could be stopped by hand, indicating a potential issue with the fan’s engagement. Consulting with a Mercedes-Benz expert, the diagnosis pointed towards a faulty fan clutch and potentially the water pump.
To address this, aftermarket replacement parts were sourced, including a new water pump, an electromagnetic fan clutch, a thermostat, and Mercedes-Benz Blue Coolant. A mobile mechanic was enlisted for the installation. However, during the repair, a snag was encountered: the factory Engine Cooling Fan Sensor, designed to screw into the side of the original water pump, was incompatible with the new, albeit exact replacement, water pump. A separate purchase of a new Engine Cooling Fan Sensor became necessary.
Close-up of a Mercedes 190E engine bay, showcasing the engine components.
With all new components installed, the Mercedes 190E did exhibit improved performance. Yet, the main cooling fan’s speed remained questionable. It didn’t achieve the robust, forceful spin expected for optimal cooling. This raises a crucial question regarding the Engine Cooling Fan Sensor’s function.
Is the Engine Cooling Fan Sensor, positioned on the water pump, responsible for actuating the fan clutch engagement in the Mercedes 190E? Or is there another sensor governing this critical cooling process? Understanding the interplay between these components is vital for effectively resolving the overheating issue and ensuring the longevity of this classic vehicle. Further investigation into the sensor’s role and the fan clutch mechanism is needed to achieve the desired cooling performance for the Mercedes 190E.
