Unfortunately the AC is the Achilles heel of these W126 cars.

A Firestone store simply couldn't be expected to deal with this - it is complex.

Check the "Good Mechanics" section here for a good indie mechanic in your area.

From what I have read here it is not a good idea to contemplate a switch to R134 on these cars, either.

Jim B.

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1991 560 SEC AMG, 199k <---- 300 hp 10:1 ECE euro HV ...

1995 E 420, 170k "The Red Plum" (sold)

2015 BMW 535i xdrive awd Stage 1 DINAN, 6k, <----364 hp

1967 Mercury Cougar, 49k

2013 Jaguar XF, 20k <----340 hp Supercharged, All Wheel Drive (sold)