Remove A/C clutch coil without breaking seal? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

anhydrous7 · #1 07-17-2007, 02:17 PM

Due to my A/C compressor belt failing, the electrical connector for the clutch coil has been compromised. The belt cracked the spade connetor and now it only engages intermintitely.
I need to replace it to fix it correctly. Has anyone succesfully removed the pulley and clutch coil from a W126 without evacuating the refirgerant from the system. It appears it would be possible if the compressor is removed from its mounting bracket. I don't believe there is enough room to use a puller to remove the pulley with it mounted to the engine.

Any lessons learned or comments would be appreciated.

rrgrassi · #2 07-17-2007, 03:09 PM

Being that a clutch costs about the same as a remanned compressor, I'm just replacing the compressor. The clutch burned up on mine. I'm also replacing the drier, adding a ho/lo pressure switch and replacing the expansion valve. I got a new compressor for $220. It's a Hodyon (Hancock Industries) It looks different than the R-4, but has the same dimensions. It also has the stepped ports, but comes with the needed inserts to fit the MB.

It would be hard to keep from dorking up the discharge and suction lines by leaving them connected and trying to pull the clutch off of the compressor while it is not mounted.

James L · #3 07-17-2007, 04:43 PM

can you try and solder a new spade connector unto some exposed metal? (if no exposed metal, try to dig some out of the ceramic with a knife/drill). i would try that before removing anything.

ichbineinekrous · #4 07-17-2007, 05:21 PM

I went through this a couple months ago, exact same issue. I couldn't resolder it due to the whole gravity issue (what a drag). I was quoted $250 for a local indy to remove the compressor and re-solder the connector, although he wouldn't stand behind the repair due to that area being highly prone to moderate vibration. I feel your pain, it was the biggest ordeal and steepest learning curve of any project I've undertaken on gretchen to date...but I now have cold, cold, a/c. All is well upon the firmament.

anhydrous7 · #5 07-18-2007, 12:52 PM

Don't think I can resolder. The spade connectors are enclosed in plastic, and the plastic is the portion that cracked. If i get under the car and wiggle the plastic portion, the clutch will engage. I found a new coil for $40. Think that is the way to go versus replacing the entire compressor.

Was just curious if any one has 'been there, done that' already. I am going to try to remove clutch and coil with the charge still in. Will report back.

rhodes2010 · #6 07-18-2007, 01:54 PM

I did remove and replace the magnetic coil, bearing, and pulley on my 1983
300SD. Without removing the compressor from the car, without losing
the refrigerant charge.

My AC was so well charged and so cold I did not want to recharge it.

The local AC shop cost of capturing and recharging was far higher than
just pulling the pulley and replacing it.

In my case the bearing went bad, with caused the pulley to break, which
chewed the magnetic coil.

I was able to source on Ebay the coil, bearing, pulley separately.
But I was lucky and had to wait to find them all.

I recommend buying a complete replacement compressor from the guys
in Midlothian texas and just remove the parts needed.

It does take the required tool to remove the pulley.
As for reinstalling, I think I used some 2 inch PVC to make a small collar
to help press the pulley and bearing back on.

It can be done, if it seems tight, pull the radiator. I did not, but was prepared to.

IT CAN BE DONE.

anhydrous7 · #7 07-18-2007, 03:12 PM

Thanks Rhodes2010. That is the information I was looking for. Sent you a PM with some questions.

Appreciate your input!