I am having a few issues with the AC system of my 1982 300SD. Basically, the AC is not blowing very cold air and the vents are not opening and closing properly. I have found valuable information regarding the CCU, switches, and vacuum issues and I am working on diagnosis and repair. For now, I have disconnected the pod for the cabin recirculation vent and manually closed it allowing for cabin air recirculation. Additionally, I have disconnected the defrost damper from the pod and manually closed the defrost vent. I have another problem that I have not seen posted as of yet. I have a condensation problem and water is collecting in the sytem and is blown like a rainstorm out of the rear compartment vent. I currently have the damper closed to prevent water from being blown out the vent. The water collects fairly fast and I would estimate that about a 1/2 pint of water collects after only a couple hours of AC operation. What would be the cause and the cure for this condensation?

Never heard of that particular issue. The first thing I'd look at is the condition of your evaporator drains. They need to be clear, and it sounds like one or both may be blocked. The drains are above the transmission under the car. You should be able to see the drain hoses, one on each side.

The hoses often degrade and require replacement. In my case, the rear floors would be soaked after a couple of hours of operation. You can reveal the hoses by removing the carpeted cover on either side of the center console. The hose will be obvious. I ended up getting a length of PVC from home depot and replacing mine.

Good luck.

__________________
Tjohn

82 300 SD
77 450 SL (gone)

What is the best way to remove the carpet covers on the sides of the center console?