A/C work...

[Glen]

The a/c on my Dad's car has a slow leak that two shops claim to be in the evap. core. Looking at it, it doesn't look too difficult to replace...how hard is it to replace an evap. core in a 1991 190E 2.3?

I would describe myself as an advanced diy'er but I've never done any a/c work. I assume I should have a shop evacuate the R12 and then I can remove/replace the core. I also assume I should replace the receiver/dryer. My main question is how do I determine how much oil to put back into the system?

Anything else I need to be aware of?

Thanks!

[mbdoc]

The A/C evap on the 190 is very easy, on a 2.5 hour job!! All the work is done under the hood, be very careful when removing the w/s wiper assembly. THE windshield can break if you arent careful!

[Glen]

Thanks Doc!
I think I need to do more research...I was told the evap. core was in front of the radiator. I really need to start learning about A/C...

Condensor is in front of the radiator. The evaporator is the unit that exchanges heat from cabin.

I would strongly suggest that you verify the leak location before replacing anything. The evaporators are a source of problems, but don't replace it because that historically leaks on this car.

I would suggest using UV dye and a UV light to ENSURE the location of the leak before doing anything else. If you cannot get access to UV detection equipment, try to find a "sniffer".

This being an R12 system makes it even more important to know that you're fixing the leak. You don't want to "cut and try" with the current R12 prices being what they are.

My $0.02,

[Glen]

Thanks Larry.
I think I'll try another shop and get a third opinion...