1987 260E A/C not working
 

I bought a 1987 260E yesterday and the A/C is not working. The electrical connector to the compressor was disconnected so I connected it, but still no dice.

The system was converted to R134a several years back, so I thought maybe a recharge was needed. I connected my gauge and it was low. As I began to add R134a refrigerant the A/C began to turn on but it was squealing terribly. The air coming out the vents is hot so it is obviously not working.

How can I determine if I need to replace the compressor? I am thinking of replacing the compressor with an R134a Denso unit.

Thanks, Bob

Make sure you are not selecting Economy mode when you turn it on.

When you say "A/C began to turn on" what do you mean? The blower motor? Compressor engagement?

You could also have a bad evaporator.

I selected the up/down button to the left side of the HVAC area and turned the fan to high. I was adding R134a when I heard the compressor clutch squealing. Is the evaporator the small black cylinder or is that the dryer? Thanks.

Evaporator is behind the center vents in the dash. Look through the vents and your can see it.

A local shop quoted $580 to install a compressor, dryer, and expansion valve, flush the system, and fill with refrigerant. This also assumed that I provide the parts. This seems high to me. Anyone else had any experience? Thanks, Bob.

I had that work done about 3 years ago and was charged 4 hours labor time. Is your indy's usual labor rate $145 per hour? That seems high to me too.

I did this work on a W126 including flushing the condenser, evaporator and lines. I had my indi recharge the system. Search on my the posts for my profile and you will see the amount I spent on it. Its not to bad to do on your own if you have the tools, time and patience.