1998 e320 a/c died
 

I have a 1998 e320 and the a/c compressor clutch has died. Does this usually mean the compressor has gone bad or do the clutches sometimes go out by themselves? I have found several different brands of compressors for sale, which do all of you think is the best if I do have to replace the compressor? Thanks Dan

If the fusible link is burnt, then the compressor has overheated & needs replaced.

Denso, OE is the only way to go!

I found this compressor on ebay. Has anyone ever bought from these people? I have never bought parts from anyone online except fastlane and it is not in stock there.


http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=170543980616

Thanks for any help. Fastlane does have all the other parts.

I haven't bought from those folks, but I did buy a new aftermarket (Sanden-Behr) compressor from Techchoiceparts on ebay last summer for my '97 E420. Cost about $240, and has worked fine. I had previously bought a rebuilt Denso compressor from Hjcycleparts on ebay that was a total nightmare. The price you found looks good - if I recall correctly, my dealer could only offer me rebuilt Denso's, for over $800.

I am going to order a new denso compressor Monday, which other parts should i replace when replacing the compressor?

drier..and any associated o-rings with other parts...

Thanks for the help so far. Got the compressor and am going to start this weekend. Does the power steering pump need to come off to get to the compressor?

Should be easy swap working from the bottom.

Note: There are TONS of a/c related threads on here. Read through some and you will see a host of things to consider when overhauling your system.

Things to consider like:
Flushing the system out if the compressor failed and there might be contaminants (metal bits) present that could damage the new pump.
replacing most of the orings you can gain access to.
Always replace the drier when ever opening up the system.
Consider replacing the expansion valve, this is a common culprit as well.
Are the fins of your condenser clean?
You have a W210, do you have the updated fan, cover, and regulator?
Do you have fresh cabin filters?
Lastly, total PIA I have heard, but pray your evaporator is good.

Best of luck and please report back with your success.

note: It is always good to put your year/make/model in your signature. This way all posts in a thread give quick reference to what you are working on or what you own and how it may apply to the thread.