Hi All, 1983 300D W123. I'm looking for a reliable source for a re-built A/C compressor, new Receiver Dryer etc to attempt a fix on my A/C. General question, is the A/C on this car a "normal" system, meaning do I HAVE to go to MB to have it properly diagnosed or should any good A/C shop be able to work on this beast. When I do finally find the leaks or whatever I am going to stick to R-12. The dealer I bought the car from recharged the system when I bought the car, but it is not working anymore. Dealer is an E-bay thief I'm afraid and I didn't perform research to the level I should have so going back to him isn't an option.
Thanks for any advise.

I'm not sure from your post if you plan on fixing it yourself or if you want to know what to expect from an a/c shop.

First thing you have to do is figure out why the a/c broke down. If you're sure you need a compressor and dryer, you can do it yourself. But you need compressed air (to flush out the system), vaccum pump (to evacuate air before charging), and manifold gauges for proper charging pressures.

It's easy to fix an a/c so you get cold air (as in your case).....but much harder to fix it PROPERLY so you get cold air for a long time.

For parts, try ackits.com or caawparts.com. Both are reputable a/c experts and trustworthy internet dealers. For more expert advice on a/c, go to aircondition.com to talk to specialists.

__________________
95 E320 Cabriolet, 159K

Kestas pretty much said it all. You might also search for a/c posts that contain my name. I have contributed a lot of my knowledge on the subject as I have researched the topic in great detail and successfully repaired the a/c on two cars.

Additionally, I would go with a new compressor. It is too much trouble to swap out a rebuilt that isn't working very well. Lastly, I would rate the a/c systems on these cars as very basic. Don't be afraid to work on them yourself, just research the topic and be sure to fix it the right way the first time around.

Good luck,

Greg
'84 300D

More importantly, WHY are you changing the compressor? If it failed you need to THOROUGHLY flush the system and it would be best to put on a suction side filter in the line before the compressor.

Don't even THINK about using a rebuilt R4 compressor, belly up to the bar and buy a new one.

Good luck,

I wouldn't recommend a rebuilt R4 compressor. They're suspect at best. Go with a new compressor.

Ron
http://germanstar.net