I live in North County, about 30 miles south of Fallbrook and I have converted all my MBZ to 134a for < $50. I find it cold and comfortable even in idling traffic. But I do not know what it should be like with R12 as A/C was not working when I bought the cars. Kragen sold the conversion kit. Personally I would not pay $2000 as you can get an used car for that price, with AC working if you are lucky.

You need to locate the leak first. If the R12 is lost over a number of years then probably there is no leak, so to speak. Most A/C loses a bit of freon per year.

If you are an above DIY then you could attempt to do the conversion yourself. If you want to stay with R12 then get some quote and make an educated decision. You can PM me you need some help.

Good luck.

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Not MBZ nor A/C trained professional but a die-hard DIY and green engineer. Use the info at your own peril. Picked up 2 Infractions because of disagreements. NOW reversed.

W124 Keyless remote, PM for details. http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/mercedes-used-parts-sale-wanted/334620-fs-w124-chasis-keyless-remote-%2450-shipped.html

1 X 2006 CDI
1 x 87 300SDL
1 x 87 300D
1 x 87 300TDT wagon
1 x 83 300D
1 x 84 190D ( 5 sp ) - All R134 converted + keyless entry.