As I have mentioned in a few prior posts, I have had cooling/overheating problems with my 71 280Sl since I purchased it, The hot humid DC summers have been no match for the car's cooling system. I checked all of the typical problem spots to no avail. I resigned myself to driving with the heat on all summer and no going out if the temp rised above 85.
Finally I smartened up and sent the car up to Gernold at SL-Tech. I just got the car back and am happy to report that I can finally enjoy it in hot weather.
Prior to the repairs the temp needle would rise immediately at every red light if the ambient temp was above 80 degrees. (that was with the heat on).
Gernold went through the entire car and replaced fixed or repaired anything that was not right including the cooling system. (what a difference having an expert look at it). Anyway, he was able to dramtically improve the cooling issues with a new radiator, water pump, fan, temp gauge, and he also repositioined the sensor in the head to get a more accurate reading.
In addition he installed an upgraded and modified AC system (which was taken out of the car years ago). So now not only do I have a cooler running engine, I can drive with AC instead of heat!
In addition to the heating system, he went through the car front to back and addressed a number of other issues, sqeaks, rattles, etc and sorted out a number of prior repairs that were done elsewhere weren't quite right. The car has never run better plus I have peace of mind knowing that everything that was done was done right.
Let me add my voice to those others who have praised Gernold's creativity and workmanship.
Ken G
1971 280 SL
Silver/red
