1994 E320 station wagon model 124 a/c orifice filter, expansion valve issues
 

My 1994 Mercedes E320 station wagon model 124 a/c (air condition) compressor was blowing warm air. The mechanic did a recharge on the a/c compressor as a service. The a/c ran cold for three days, then the a/c blowed warm air again. I took it back to the mechanic and told him about it. He said I need a new a/c compressor and he does not do repair work on a/c compressor. So after several months went by, I went to another mechanic closer to my home area, and recharge the a/c and told me I need a/c compressor and a drier or accumulator. He said he can do the work on my mercedes. However, my experience with mechanics in the area where I live stay away from working on mercedes. So I ordered a rebuilt compressor and a dryer. When the package arrived, the dryer and a/c compressor looks the same as the ones were in the Mercedes. According to the instructions in the package, the a/c system uses an Orifice filter and it must be replaced. I cannot find or locate this particular orifice filter on my mercedes. In addition, the instructions also indicated if the system uses an Expansion valve and it must be clean or replace with new expansion valve. Again, I cannot locate this expansion valve on my mercedes. Then I did some research and it appears the orifice filter and expansion valve both are part of the a/c system. Any ideas as to clarify this issue? Your response is greatly appreciated.

Your car does not have the orifice tube, it uses an expansion valve. It can be seen besides the brake booster. If you follow the big chunky A/C suction from the compressor to the firewall insulation you will see that it leads into a rectangle block which has another thinner line (liquid) on it too. That is the expansion valve.

Your next question would be how do I get tools into that microscopic location :confused:

easy - think like MB design - remove the lower rubber weatherstrip from the windshield - (pull it out) - pull out the little white locking piece that holds the two plastic wiper trays together and keep it safe. remove the screws from the plastic pieces and remove the items - they come out easily

You now have all the room you want to work the tools - If your mechanic is not accustomed to MB repairs - tell him this - it will make work easier and prevent other damages like the vacuum line bundles near it.

Always use a genuine expansion valve. Also make sure your mechanic sets the A/C compressor clutch gap correctly. If its not correct even on a new compressor - you will be paying him a visit again soon.

First of all, thanks to all who read and gave me feedback. I have instructions for removal and reinstall new compressor but I can't seem to find the instructions for removal and reinstall new accumulator/receiver drier for my 1994 E320 wagon. Can anyone out there advise me on this issue? Your response is greatly appreciated.

the best way to deal with the dryer is to remove the headlamp so you have all the room to swing the tools.