E300 DT Condenser Replacement - Tips

[nhdoc]

Despite what the WIS says for the W210 chassis, I found out you need to remove the front bumper in order to get access to the condenser fittings during an R&R job. Taking the bumper off is easy as it is only held on by 4 bolts, but the WIS does not mention having to do it as part of the condenser replacement. The problem with the E300 is the intercooler blocks access to the condenser fittings from underneath so you do need to pull the bumper off.

The receiver-drier is also a bit of a trick to get out; I had to loosen the left headlight to get it out.

All in all the job took about 3 hours to replace the condenser, receiver-drier and hose between them. Another tip is to make sure you get all the o-rings as the only part that comes with o-rings is the hose. The condenser needs 2 o-rings and for $320 list price they don't include them!

They also make you re-use all of the rubber mounts from the old condenser or buy new ones separately...sheesh, talk about cheapo.

On the plus side you don't have to remove the radiator or viscous fan to do this job so you don't have to open the cooling system at all.

[riethoven]

Originally Posted by nhdoc

They also make you re-use all of the rubber mounts from the old condenser or buy new ones separately...sheesh, talk about cheapo.

On the plus side you don't have to remove the radiator or viscous fan to do this job so you don't have to open the cooling system at all.

I think they make more money off parts than off of the cars. Better for them to bang you for every little part.