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  #1  
Old 05-26-2003, 10:45 AM
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Location: Austin, Tx
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my new 300SEL 4.5

Must have a air leak in front some where, goes down overnite but seems to be even when settles. Sounds like a main valve leak? How should I check? thanks.

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Old 05-26-2003, 11:11 AM
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Could either be the main valve or the air tank that is leaking. It is uncommon for the air lines and fittings to leak so you would want to check the filling and drain valves on the air tank. Also check that the pressure switch on the main valve is not leaking.

Be sure to check the air tank for oily condensation which would lead to worn rings on the compressor pump. When pressures are below 7 atmospheres the red light in the cluster will illuminate.
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Old 05-26-2003, 12:19 PM
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Location: Belgium
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Have also a vacuum problem on my '71 450SL. Where could I find the main valve ,air tank and pressure switch?

Thank you
Greg
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Old 05-26-2003, 02:32 PM
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'71 450SL??

Either way, this issue is something different with your car. Tosbt's car has an air suspension problem while you're after a vacuum leak. What exactly is the problem with the SL?
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Old 05-27-2003, 05:48 PM
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To check for an air leak, use soapy water and dab it over the connections. Look for bubles. The condensate in the air tank must be drained. There is a valve at the bottom which you push up to drain it. The tank is under pressure so be careful. Use a bucket or can to cartch the fluid since it has oil in it. Add denatured alchohol(sp?) to the plastic jar at the compresser air intake during the winter months so the condensate won't freeze.

Cleanliness is next to goddliness with the air suspension. A good resource on these cars is http://www.m-100.org which covers the larger engined cars. The 600 and 6.3 use the same type of air suspension.

When you jack up the car, the inside lever must be moved to the 'non-running' position to block the air return line. If the car is let down with empty airbags the leveling valves will be damaged and they are expensive.

The suspension needs to be greased as well including the drive shaft, the rear axle and the rear caliper mounting bearings. These devices keep the rear of the car from rising during braking and the whole car will squat during heavy braking.

Any more questions?

BTW, my dad had a 1965 300SE LWB (fintail) so I learned a lot.

Regards

BTW, Aaron the moderator knows quite a bit about these cars since he currently owns a 6.3.
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Warren

Currently 1965 220Sb, 2002 FORD Crown Vic Police Interceptor

Had 1965 220SEb, 1967 230S, 280SE 4.5, 300SE (W126), 420SEL

ENTER > = (HP RPN)

Not part of the in-crowd since 1952.
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Old 05-28-2003, 06:43 PM
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Location: Atlanta
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How old are the bellows? That is the first place to check.

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