Hi all,

I did a search on AC recharge and can see this is a very complicated process for a newbee like me.

My AC worked great last year, did not use over winter (no no) and now blows ambient air.

Not sure where to begin diagnosis. I would like to check refrigerant level, have benz instructions on this.

If low, how do I go about recharging? Looks like hi and low side thing is important. Does the benz cd address this issue?

I am intimidated by AC but don't want to get screwed when getting repaired. I am trying to get edjumacated.

Any advice?

Thanks,
Joel

To check refrigerant charge level, you need to hook up a/c manifold gauges to read high and low side pressures. If the compressor won't kick in, the best you could get is static pressure readings.

If pressures are low, you need to find the leak. One way to find a leak is to inject a flourescent dye, recharge to proper pressures, then look for the leak with a UV light. Any leak must be fixed first before moving on the refrigerant charging issues. These fixes can get involved....we'll help walk you through these fixes if you feel comfortable enough doing the work.

If pressures look good, then the problem may be electrical.

It is extremely important to charge through the low side port. You could seriously hurt yourself charging through the wrong port.

You also need to know which refrigerant (r12 or HFC 134) is in the system. The port connections should give you a clue.

Do this preliminary work (pressures) and post back.

__________________
95 E320 Cabriolet, 159K

Thanks for the quick reply,

I'll run through the preliminary diagnostics this weekend and post my results.

I really appreciate the offer of the walk through. I have always been unsure regarding AC and this is the first time I am going to attempt.

Thanks again,
Joel