HomeBelts and Cooling > Thermostat and HousingGates 33556 Engine Coolant Thermostat
Part #: 33556

Gates 33556 Engine Coolant Thermostat

OE Type Thermostat
⚙️ 20 vehicles fit this part
🔍
Select your vehicle to confirm fitment
Verify this part fits before purchasing — free returns if it doesn't
$23.93Free Shipping
🚚Free ShippingNo Cost to Continental U.S.
🔄Free Returns*Wrong fit? No cost
🛡️60-Day ReturnsMoney back guarantee
*Free return shipping only qualifies if our fitment verification tool is used.
🔥
✅ In Stock · Ready To Ship Most orders ship same-day if ordered before 1pm CST.
OE Direct Replacement — Bolt-on fit, no modifications needed
📦OE Type Thermostat
🚗Fitment: Mercedes-Benz, 300SEL, 380SE, 380SEC, 380SEL, 380SL, 380SLC, 500SEC, and 500SEL
🔄Easy Returns — Return within 60 days for a full refund
🚚Fast Shipping — Most orders ship same business day before 1pm CST

Reliable Cooling Control for Mercedes-Benz Vehicles

The Gates OE Type Thermostat 33556 is engineered to maintain optimal engine temperature for select Mercedes-Benz models. Designed with durable steel and copper materials, this engine coolant thermostat ensures precise temperature regulation and efficient engine performance.

  • Constructed from steel and copper for durability and heat resistance
  • Reverse poppet bottom-blocking by-pass design for effective coolant flow
  • Sealing flange outside diameter of 2.63 inches for secure fitment
  • Height between flanges measures 1.23 inches for proper installation
  • Starts to open at 167°F (75°C) to regulate engine temperature accurately
  • Includes one jiggle pin weep hole to prevent air lock
  • OE type thermostat ensuring original equipment performance standards

About the Gates OE Type Thermostat Product Line

The OE Type Thermostat line by Gates is designed to meet original equipment specifications, providing reliable temperature control and compatibility with factory systems. This product line focuses on delivering thermostats that match the exact fit and function required by vehicle manufacturers, including Mercedes-Benz models such as the 300SEL, 380SE, and 500SEL.

Detailed Product Description

The Gates 33556 thermostat features a reverse poppet bottom-blocking by-pass design, which allows coolant to circulate efficiently when the thermostat is closed, preventing hot spots and ensuring consistent engine temperature. The thermostat opens at 167°F (75°C), allowing coolant flow to the radiator to prevent overheating. Its steel and copper construction offers corrosion resistance and long service life. The sealing flange outside diameter of 2.63 inches and height between flanges of 1.23 inches ensure a precise fit in the cooling system housing. Additionally, the included jiggle pin weep hole helps release trapped air, improving coolant circulation and system reliability.

Compatible Vehicles and Common Applications

  • Mercedes-Benz 300SEL engine cooling regulation
  • Mercedes-Benz 380SE and 380SEC temperature control
  • Mercedes-Benz 380SEL, 380SL, and 380SLC cooling system maintenance
  • Mercedes-Benz 500SEC and 500SEL engine temperature management
  • Replacement for OE thermostats requiring precise fit and function

Installation Notes and Tips

This thermostat does not include an installation tool, so ensure you have the appropriate tools for removal and installation. Verify the sealing flange dimensions and height to confirm compatibility with your vehicle’s thermostat housing. Proper installation is critical to avoid leaks and ensure accurate temperature regulation. Inspect the cooling system for any signs of wear or damage during replacement.

Quality Assurance and Warranty

The Gates OE Type Thermostat 33556 is manufactured to meet OE performance standards, ensuring reliable operation in Mercedes-Benz vehicles. While specific warranty details are not provided, Gates products typically adhere to strict quality control processes to maintain durability and performance.

BrandGates
Part Number33556
PositionOE Type Thermostat
MaterialSteel, copper
Sealing Flange Outside Diameter2.63
Height Between Flanges1.23
DesignReverse poppet bottom-blocking by-pass
TypeOe type thermostat
Height2.46
Gasket Quantity0
Jiggle Pin Weep HoleYes
Start to Open Temperature167
Start to Open Temperature75
Installation Tool IncludedNo
98131.7
98410
98521
99071.23
By-Pass Flange Diameter (in)1.7
DesignReverse poppet bottom-blocking by-pass
Height from Flange (in)1.23
Includes Installation ToolNo
MaterialSteel, copper
Number of Gaskets0
Number of Jiggle Pins/Check Valves1
Number of Seals0
OE Comparison RatingOe performance

This part fits 20 vehicles. Search below:

YearMakeModelLitersCylindersFuel TypePositionNotes
1985Mercedes-Benz380SE3.8LV8GASN/A160 Degree; OE Temperature; OE Type Thermostat
1985Mercedes-Benz380SL3.8LV8GASN/A160 Degree; OE Temperature; OE Type Thermostat
1985Mercedes-Benz500SEC5.0LV8GASN/A160 Degree; OE Temperature; OE Type Thermostat
1985Mercedes-Benz500SEL5.0LV8GASN/A160 Degree; OE Temperature; OE Type Thermostat
1984Mercedes-Benz380SE3.8LV8GASN/A160 Degree; OE Temperature; OE Type Thermostat
1984Mercedes-Benz380SL3.8LV8GASN/A160 Degree; OE Temperature; OE Type Thermostat
1984Mercedes-Benz500SEC5.0LV8GASN/A160 Degree; OE Temperature; OE Type Thermostat
1984Mercedes-Benz500SEL5.0LV8GASN/A160 Degree; OE Temperature; OE Type Thermostat
1983Mercedes-Benz380SEC3.8LV8GASN/A160 Degree; OE Temperature; OE Type Thermostat
1983Mercedes-Benz380SEL3.8LV8GASN/A160 Degree; OE Temperature; OE Type Thermostat
1983Mercedes-Benz380SL3.8LV8GASN/A160 Degree; OE Temperature; OE Type Thermostat
1982Mercedes-Benz380SEC3.8LV8GASN/A160 Degree; OE Temperature; OE Type Thermostat
1982Mercedes-Benz380SEL3.8LV8GASN/A160 Degree; OE Temperature; OE Type Thermostat
1982Mercedes-Benz380SL3.8LV8GASN/A160 Degree; OE Temperature; OE Type Thermostat
1981Mercedes-Benz380SEL3.8LV8GASN/A160 Degree; OE Temperature; OE Type Thermostat
1981Mercedes-Benz380SL3.8LV8GASN/A160 Degree; OE Temperature; OE Type Thermostat
1981Mercedes-Benz380SLC3.8LV8GASN/A160 Degree; OE Temperature; OE Type Thermostat
1973Mercedes-Benz300SEL4.5LV8GASN/A160 Degree; OE Temperature; OE Type Thermostat
1972Mercedes-Benz300SEL4.5LV8GASN/A160 Degree; OE Temperature; OE Type Thermostat
1970Mercedes-Benz300SEL3.5LV8GASN/A160 Degree; OE Temperature; OE Type Thermostat

* Always verify fitment with your vehicle's VIN if unsure. Submodel & trim restrictions may apply.

This part directly replaces or is cross-referenced with the following part numbers:

00220317750022037775002203827511520003151162000015116200021513496143-0412143-064221-16022038275248-16028-1877530116305-1603355636464030.714034 6754756-0030967436083311ET-30-160RT-362S-349-160TX1975D

Cross-reference numbers are provided for identification purposes only. Always confirm fitment before ordering.