Are there any fuses (other than those located in the fuse box) for the operation of AC in 1987 420SEL. If so, where are they located?

There is the possibility of a single high current fuse similar to a glow fuse, for the blower. It is usually mounted on the wheel housing. It wasn't placed on cars as early as yours (I don't think), but it was retrofitted to many as a service bulletin. The original small fuse in the box had trouble with the load.

__________________
Steve Brotherton
Continental Imports
Gainesville FL
Bosch Master, ASE Master, L1
33 years MB technician

Brother of The Benz, Cheri
Cheri, you didn't say what was wrong with the A/C?
If all the fuses are OK and the blower will not come on, then there are conditional switches that must be made before the A/C will operate.
These switches monitor the refrigirant pressure, engine speed, engine coolant temperature to name a few.
Have your A/C inspected by a qualified technican or a knowledgable friend.
Happy Trails Beep Beep from The Spiderman in Houston!!!

Thanks for your responses. The blower appears to be working fine. The A/C is not cooling. It was very cold and suddenly stopped. It was not a gradual warming. I had a certified MB mechanic take a look at it. He said everything would have to be replaced and also that all the hoses were leaking and he would do the job for $3,000. I'm looking for another opinion (and another mechanic). I've already priced the new parts myself. Also, trying to decide whether or not to convert to 134. I live in Texas, two hours from Houston, and it gets pretty warm here.

If its not cooling the first issue is whether the compressor is coming on. If it isn't, the next step is deciding whether it is off because the pressure is too low (low on refrigerant) or whether it is a control problem.

Your car works fairly well converted but it won't work as well as in R-12. I'd leave it alone. If you need a compressor and an evaporator (and hoses, drier, and expansion valve) the bill could get pretty high. We see very few early 126 cars with evap problems. I would definitely get a second opinion. I would advise a high quality A/C shop. Many MB only shops don't have the techniques to save people money. These include manufacturing hoses and leak detecting. One way to be sure of fixing all the leaks is to replace everything. Take it to someone who uses flourescent dye and only repair the obvious leaks first, especially if you convert.

__________________
Steve Brotherton
Continental Imports
Gainesville FL
Bosch Master, ASE Master, L1
33 years MB technician

Cheri, make sure #5 fuse isnt blown. I thinks for the compressor. If it is blown, its due to a faulty airpump clutch. Which over loads that circuit and blows the fuse. If thats ok, could be the klima relay/which controls the ACC system. Its located in the fuse box a black large relay in the rear its says klima right on it.

But then again like all the other guys say. If your hoses are leaking the system is dry and the compressor wont kick on.




keep me posted


GUIDO
FACTORY TECH MB 14 YRS

Thanks so much for all your suggestions. I'll check them all out and let you know.

Brother of The Benz, Cheri
If you can't find adequate service where you are, drive to Houston. I can recommend an independant to you.
Whatever the problem(s) make the conversion to R-134A and look to the future.
No, R-12 won't be discontinued but the cost will not come down.
It still sounds like pressure conditional switches. No freon would be the first guess.
We've run the mill and your A/C isn't cooling yet.
It quit most rapidly, as if a hose blew, can you see any large deposits of oil on any of the refer components?
Good Luck, Tropical Depression Allison is making himself heard to night.
Happy Trails Beep Beep from The Spiderman in Houston!!!

My compressor siezed up without warning. If you can suggest a good independent that deals with a/c systems here in Houston, I'd sure appreciate it.

Thanks,

Herb
'82 240D
114,000 miles

Brother of The Benz, Herb
Do you have an E-Mail address?
Mine is, dlswnfrd@academicplanet.com
Try me and I'll give you my favorite indepenant.
Happy Trails Beep Beep from, The Spiderman in Houston!!!

Try MPH Automotive: http://www.mphauto.com/

I have known the owner Michael Haven through the technical forums we both belong and through our mutual association with Bosch as Bosch authorized Service Centers (BSCs). When I bought my 97 540i through ebay I had confidence that I could get it checked locally in Houston. He told exactly as it was, even caught a catalyst problem that I got the dealer to warrantee five months later when the noise got bad enough to take it in. When I picked up my car I drove out to see his shop. Well equipped is my impression. Well equipped with equipment and well equipped with intelligent staff.

He is on the west side of town and it is a big town.

__________________
Steve Brotherton
Continental Imports
Gainesville FL
Bosch Master, ASE Master, L1
33 years MB technician