Sourcing AC Compressor
 

What's the best place to get a rebuilt AC compressor? I've been told to get an AC Delco.

Thanks.

For the cost difference, I'd go new. Got mine from Carlise in San Antonio.

Phil got me a new one when the original one in my 240D seized up.

I bought one of these:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=360346658161&viewitem=&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWNX%3AIT

And while I haven't installed it, it matches up with the one out my 79 300D mount point wise, and I'm sure it will work in my 85 300D.

Brand new AC Delco r4, with the metal/rubber seals, instructions for R12 and R134 usage. Smaller that stock clutch, but the belt lines up.

The AC Delco 15-20206 compressor that was installed in my 300cd has been going strong for 3 years. The shorter clutch of this unit puts the A/C belt further away from the oil cooler lines; a better margin of safety in the event that a motor mount fails.

Are you using R12 or R134a?
There are Delco R-4s which are designed to work with the higher pressure of the R134a and you can get the proper serial number from Carlisle Auto Air in San Antonio.. the place already mentioned... talk to Tray Carlisle.

I second Phil for a source. NEW is the way to go. these compressors are notoriously difficult to rebuild. Just bite the bullet and go new.
also, if you need a compressor, you need expansion valve (TXV), reciever, and you should replace the manifold with rubber lines that attaches to the compressor. ALSO you should flush all traces of oil and residue out of both coils with a proper flush tool, and flush compound, using DRY NITROGEN or CO2 as a pressure flush.

OT: beautiful car. Love the interior!

OK, back to A/C.

I agree. I have the MB AC manual and have read the section on rebuilding the Delco R-4 ( and the other types also just for the record).... NO normal human being is able to properly rebuild those units... unless you have the factory supplied SPECIAL TOOLS and JIGS... no way, no how. And I am all for rebuilding rebuildable stuff...
Would Phil or you post the serial number which is designed for the higher pressure R134a refrigerant please ? and the SKU at Peach parts would help keep anyone from making a mistake in ordering.
" Replace the manifold " I have mentioned this many times but doubt that it happens .... It is stated in the MB AC FSM as necessary when replacing the compressor after a system failure. the " manifold" .. the metal manifold at the side of the compressor... must have a NON CLEANABLE filter or restriction in it... as the FSM says nothing about being able to clean it.. it says " REPLACE".... but I wonder if they are available ?
" Both Coils " --John was using short hand... he is referring to the condensor and the evaporator coils. When power flushing the system the old or new receiver /dryer or the compressor are not involved. The new receiver dryer is only opened up when the system is about to be put back together as it immediately starts to absorb moisture...and it's capacity is limited. Once that capacity if reached then it no longer protects the system from the moisture and the acid produced by that moisture.. which can eat the insides out of the AC system... the problem being that a few flakes off the inside can make their way to the TXvalve ( block valve on 123 ) and stop it up.
John, we were going to make up a definitive AC thread for a sticky... you are not busy.. why don't you do that this week ? LOL

Whiew... a/c thread... what, you don't wanna just tackle every a/c question as they come in?

OH, John, What was I thinking... if we did that half the SUMMER conversations would be missing.... much better to answer them one by one...

A new metal manifold for the Delco R4 is available ?
How about a part number ?
How much is it ?

When I put my new compressor on last summer, I had to replace the manifold. I don't have the part number but it was all together as a hose assembly. I think it was just under $400. More than the compressor!

OUCH !!!! maybe that is why I thought they were not available !!!! Not available in my budget ..... LOL

Charles, Did you cut yours open to see what is inside which makes it not cleanable ?

I keep wondering if there isn't a solution other than using one of the worst compressors ever made. What inspired Mercedes to source that particular pump is beyond me.

Once you answer that get back to me on the whole evil servo too. :mad: