Cooling System: How long can it stay empty?

[JPMOSE]

I want to restore the cooling system on my 250SL.  How long can I keep it empty without fear of any corrosion?  The coolant I will be draining is fresh Mercedes coolant.  My goal is to do everything within 2-3 weeks.

I am going to change all my cooling hoses (some are still original and seem OK!!!)with genuine Mercedes.  Ordered a clamp set from Pete Lester.  I just purchased a new Mercedes radiator, will repaint the expansion tank and repaint/replace/restore all the metal tubes.  Restore the metal fan finish.  I just reversed flush the heater core (Rodd's suggestion and it works much much better!!!) and replaced the valve seal.  I will also install a new water pump and thermostat.

This should be a fun project!

Best Regards,

J. P. Mose
1968 250SL
1987 560SL

[Benz Dr.]

Not long if the car is running ( ask me how I know this ) but a very long time if it's an empty system. Some rust will form on metal parts over time due to oxidation but not in a few weeks.

Dan Caron's
 SL Barn
benzbarn@ebtech.net
 slbarn.mbz.org
  1 877 661 6061