W126 AC condensor broke, I a good w123 condensor - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

turbobenz · #1 07-28-2009, 08:11 PM

I bought a condensor at pick n pull over a month ago and finaly have gotten around to making my ac work. I couldnt break the fitting for the life of me to replace the o-ring. Eventually the condensor tubes going through the fins cracked, and snapped. Their aluminum so no soldering. I have a good w123 condensor and am wondering if it would be possible to shoe-horn it in. The w123 one isnt as big, which already sucks, and the w126 one has two lines that branch off and run along each other through the fins then converge back into one to enter the reciever dryer. The w123 condenser has a single line running all the way through. I understand that both w123 and w126 ac systems hold the same amount of freon, so im suspecting it will work. But I also think the w126 condensor is more efficient to make up for more cabin volume. Any thoughts? i have just enough money for a dryer, freon, and exvalve. I have good soldering skills

Simpler=Better · #2 07-28-2009, 08:18 PM

If the fittings are the same I'd say go for it. The larger surface area on the SDL was probably there for greater cooling.

#3 07-28-2009, 08:30 PM

A parallel flow condensor doesn't cost all that much.

turbobenz · #4 07-28-2009, 09:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LarryBible

A parallel flow condensor doesn't cost all that much.

I noticed that but having a hydraulic shop custom make fittings will probably double the cost of the PFC. If this is something someone can make work by cutting of copper pipes and soldering them I may be able to do that

DeliveryValve · #5 07-29-2009, 12:42 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by turbobenz

.... I understand that both w123 and w126 ac systems hold the same amount of freon, so im suspecting it will work. ...

Actually the refrigerant lines going in and around the engine on the w123 is quite longer then the w126. That is where the extra freon is located.

daw_two · #6 07-29-2009, 07:55 AM

I've got a condensor from the parts car. Shoot me a PM or email if you are interested.

Graplr · #7 07-29-2009, 04:32 PM

Actually the 123s hold 2.5lbs of R12 and the 126s hold 2.9 lbs of R12.

The fittings for the 126 condenser are located on the driver's side of the car and the fittings on the 123 are located on the passenger side of the car.

I don't think it will work with out adding hose length.

I second a pfc unless you can get a used one (of course have it pressure tested before you buy) for cheap. The first time I put a pfc in I took it to an AC shop and they charged me about $75 for parts and labor to get the hoses mocked up. (I just brought in the manifold).