What to do. Original or Upgrade???? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

olskool · #1 12-27-2011, 08:25 AM

I have been doing a lot of reading about the infamous non-working climate control servo/amplifier set up that the 300SD has I am unsure of what to do. It seems like there are varying opinions on this subject. What I am looking for are those who have replaced the original set up with a rebuilt/new original and what their experience is. How long did it last. Did the servos go out after a short period of time, did they start leaking, etc. Also, where did you purchase your parts from. Who has the best warranty/guarantee and most of all, great customer service. I am also looking for those who have "upgraded" it to the Unwired Tools type set up. How did it work? Is it still working? Does it work well and get the job done? Also, is unwired tools the only one who makes this upgrade kit? Thanks for the input on the success/failure of these set ups.

wbain5280 · #2 12-27-2011, 01:29 PM

Visit the junkyard and get a climate control unit from a junkyard car. Take that POS out of yours and replace it. I remember someone doing that and posting it.

olskool · #3 12-27-2011, 03:21 PM

So what is the guarantee of doing that. Also, there aren't many of these cars around here where I live. Most are long gone to the car crusher an if not, they are in very poor condition. Doubt anything can be found in a salvage yard that is useful.

thorsen · #4 12-27-2011, 04:16 PM

It's your money and only you can make the decision which option is better for you. When the servo on my W116 died I knew that the UT kit was the right choice for me. It worked very well, was easy to install, and eliminated the troublesome servo. The UT kit isn't a magic bullet - if you have leaking vacuum pods or cracked hoses it's not going to fix those, but as far as replacing the servo it works excellent.

olskool · #5 12-27-2011, 07:26 PM

I am leaning towards the UT kit. I understand about the vacuum lines. If there is one leak somewhere, you have a problem. Just have to find it. It reminds me of my 1969 Lincoln. Probably just as many vacuum lines on that as the 300SD. Is the link below also the UT kit???

Mercedes Benz Parts & Accessories - Mercedes 116 - CLICK HERE

Ether · #6 12-28-2011, 08:48 AM

I replaced my failed servo with a rebuilt aluminum bodied one from George Murphy at Performance Analysis Company. Only been about 6 months but it works fine so far.

meltedpanda · #7 12-28-2011, 10:29 AM

George has a nice unit, but anything after market is better then trying to R/R that servo with a new old one of original design.

thorsen · #8 12-28-2011, 11:02 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by olskool

Is the link below also the UT kit???

Mercedes Benz Parts & Accessories - Mercedes 116 - CLICK HERE

I don't see the hotwater valve in that picture although they may have left it out. Plus they charge a $200 core so you end up paying more than you would at UT.

olskool · #9 12-28-2011, 09:56 PM

Yeah, I wondered that also. I have to call them and find out about that core charge too. I will do that tomorrow and report back what they said. I am unsure about going with a servo setup even if it is from PAC. They still fail but the question is how long will it last. I know it's mechanical and it will fail eventually but I don't want to be spending $500 every few years. The UT only has a one year warranty so that's also kind of scary. The warranty on the Adsit upgrade is only 30 days. Maybe original is looking better after all. I called George but they are closed until Friday so I left a message. Will wait and talk with him to decide.

olskool · #10 12-29-2011, 05:14 PM

I called the company today. They are a small private company and very nice to talk with. He said the kit is complete with valves and necessary stuff. Just like UnwiredTools. He said it is the same kit and they buy in such large lots they can pass the saving onto customers. I think I will be ordering one next week.