Okay, it's extremely hot here in Texas, and I must do something about my A/C. When I first got the car, it seemed to cool adequately, but now doesn't cool at all. The compressor doesn't kick in, suggesting that it's low or out of refrigerant. If there's a leak, will I be forced to convert to 134a? What can I do myself to avoid outrageous expenses?

Most A/C jobs require professional repair these day's, unless your pretty familiar with auotmotive a/C systems. Not to mention the equipment, vacum pump, refridgerant recovery systems, license to purchase refridgerant. No you do not have to convert to 134A. Having said that some shop's just wont repair unless you convert.Be aware of some of these so called conversion's in a can they can be down right dangerous. Do your homework well before using or letting someone else use it. Hope this help's.

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Keith Schuster
83 300D
auto\hydraulic mechanic 20 yrs

Zoonhollis,

How long did it take to lose the refrigerant. It could be only a slow leak and could be easily recharged. You're right if the refrigerant is low, the low pressure switch will prevent the compressor from coming on. Visually check all your connections though, including the wire to the compressor and the relays on the fender well.

Good luck,

By the way, I'm a Grand Prairie High School graduate, class of '67.



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Larry Bible
'84 Euro 240D, 523K miles
'88 300E 5 Speed
'81 300D Daughter's Car
Over 800,000 miles in
Mercedes automobiles

Thanks for replying, Larry. It took only about a week for the freon to leak out, but of course, it was no doubt in the process of diminishing when I got the car. It was not terribly cold air that I felt when I first drove it. I hear numerous horror stories here about the high cost of A/C repair; but I'm willing to shell out a decent amount in order to get some relief. I bought this car knowing that it would doubtless need some repairs.