Heater Control Valve R&R on 1987 951

[TheSecondChris]

My heater control valve is leaking. I replaced this on my 84 and needed to remove the intake to get access. This was the early valve operated by the cable.

It looks like it might be possible to replace the newer style valve on my 87 w/o removing the intake. Am I right?

Thanks!

[944 Ecology]

If you have tiny hands... you may want to take the opportunity to relocate the valve to the area above the oil filter, like they did on later cars.

[TheSecondChris]

Thanks for the reply, George. I thought I read something about that in the past but couldn't find any info when I looked again.

Is there a relocation kit? I can probably figure it out if I look at the PET. I'm guessing I just need two longer hoses and a longer vacuum line. Around what year did the relocation take place? Thanks!

[944 Ecology]

I thought it was around the 88 year, but am not sure. Come to think of it, first appeared on the 16 valve motors, so would be Model Year 87.

No reference in PET or in any TSB.

You migh consider using a metal valve (NAPA has Heater Valve Part #: BK 6601410) for under $30.

Probably last a lot longer.

[TheSecondChris]

Thanks for the NAPA part number. I had already sourced a new valve and went with the Genuine Mercedes made in Germany part: MER-0008305784.

[TheSecondChris]

For anyone interested - I changed out the heater valve today and it wasn't a bad job at all. I unplugged the speed and reference and oxygen sensors and removed the bracket. I moved the vacuum hoses and brake booster hose out of the way as well.

Once you do that, access is pretty good. The job only took me 2 or 3 hours.

Now that I've addressed my coolant leak, I can move on to my oil leaks....