Exactly right. It's the center part you want to turn.
Leave the belt on. Get to the clutch however is easiest for you. I don't have one in front of me to look at, so I can't advise too much. On my W126, it's easy enough to just reach down and give it a spin.

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1989 300 SEL that mostly works, but needs TLC

NO NO NO ....say it isnt so... I tried to turn the clutch on the ac compressor, and it would not budge....but you cant actually get your hand around it...the space is just too tight. You can only push on the side of the wheel. So, I go over to my other 1990 300TE that is currently down for suspension work, and tried to turn that one. It does have resistance, but it will turn when you apply that side push down motion. I go back to this car...apply the same motion...it will NOT budge!!! Is it what I think it is? Is the compressor shot?

Is there another step before declaring a state of emergency

Thanks

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1990 300TE....all comments are about this car...in case I forget in the actual post

Well...you could try to get better access for a full grip, but I think you already know what you'll find. From what I've read here recently, compressor failure requires that you also flush debris out of the system prior to replacing the compressor. And, the receiver/dryer will need replacing, too. How's the compressor on your parts car?

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1989 300 SEL that mostly works, but needs TLC

Actually...this one is a more likely candidate for a parts car...but actually, both run very well. Now...having an a/c problem in this car just makes me more in a hurry to get the other car back on the road...since it is actually the better, and nicer car. Just need to put in the labor to install new lower arm bushing, tie rods, drag link, motor mounts, tranny mount, etc etc.

This car was purchased as a temp car until I could get my wifes car back on the road. What happens all to often...if the urgency is not there...we tend to procrastinate...so maybe buying a temp car was not such a good idea for us procrastinating types

Ok, so we can pretty much draw the conclusion that the a/c compressor is bad.....needs to be replaced, as well as receiver drier, and flush system. Good news (if i am correct) is that we can use R-12....yes?

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1990 300TE....all comments are about this car...in case I forget in the actual post