I've started to try to get my A/C running. It seems I have a substantial leak in the system. When I start to fill it I immediately hear a hissing coming from the passenger side of the condensor (up by the radiator).

In looking around I can't see any connections on the passenger side edge of the condensor...

So my question, are there any connections that could be leaking there? Or is it the condensor itself?

Thanks!
-Ryan

Okay, here is a pic of the 126 condenser. It does not appear to have any connections on the left (passenger) side. I am positive the leak is coming from somewhere on the left side of the picture (although I did not pinpoint the leak, I will have to take it out to do that).

So can I safely assume that there is a leak in the condenser and it is not some connection?
[IMG]http://www.***************/secure/PartImages/1268302770.jpg[/IMG]
If so, looks like it is time for a new condenser!

Are you going to get a parallel-flow condenser as a replacement?

I've been doing lots of research on here about them. I'm leaning towards the parallel flow. Looks like worst case scenario the new parallel flow will cost the same (fabrication to fit and new hoses) as the new OEM would. Probably even less if I fab the fit myself and have a shop build the hoses.

I'm not going to be able to do much this weekend as I am going out of town, but want to get the A/C operational asap. So far everything else in my system has checked out good. Can't tell if anything else leaks yet because of the condenser leak.

Mine 126 84 300SD was converted to r134a in 2001 with a new compressor, drier, and exspansion valve. I talked to the PO and he said the A/C never worked in the 2 years they owned it. So that puts it back to at least 2004 since it worked making the new compressor only operational for at maximum 3 years. The clucth works (I jumped it).

So if it is just the condenser that is bad I will most likely replace it with a parallel flow from ackits.com. I will have to measure to see what size fits and get some hoses made up.

I plan on flushing the system, pulling vacuum, putting oil and r134a back in, and a new drier.

Anyone have advice on the size condeser I should get for the SD?
Or where I can get hoses made up?

Also, all this is assuming the condenser is shot. So if anyone has input on my original question, that would be great!

Thanks!
Ryan

For what a condenser costs, you might as well replace it anyway. You will thank yourself on the next hot day.

A shop that does hydraulic lines should be able to make your AC lines for you. A good crimper will set you back a few hundred, so I wouldn't go that route. I believe that AMA also sells the fittings that you will need to make the hoses, which may help if you go to a hydraulic shop.