Hello all,

I am fixing up my 87 300d, which is for sale, I figured out why the a/c was not working due to a failed klima relay which I just ordered. In the mean time I would like to remove and replace the o-rings on the compressor to seal up a probable leak.

WHat size bolts hold it in place and what size and type of bolt for the manifold. I am a little short on time and if anyone has done this it would help me out.

I plan on replacing the o-rings at the manifold and any other easy access o-rings such as the the four under the manifold.

How hard is the the seal to replace if I have to and Should I try it since the compressor is out of the car.

thanks again and thanks to all who are interested in the car


bob

Hi Bobster -

The manifold is held to the compressor by a single 6mm allen head bolt. You'll need an allen key or allen head socket to remove it.

I can't remember exactly on the compressor - it's either 12mm or 13mm, I think. There are four bolts holding the comp. to the engine block.

You'll find the manifold o-rings have these special little "nibs" to hold them in place. They cost something like $5/each. While convenient, they aren't really necessary - the equivalent plain old metric o-ring will work just fine.

I've done the shaft seal on a 10p15c. I think it took 3-4 hours to pull the compressor, replace the seal, install, vacuum, charge, etc. You'll need a decent selection of snap-ring pliers to do that job. Instructions can be found on the web; I've posted the link here before.

- JimY

Thank you jimmy,

I read your previous post. It sound like you have had some experience with this.

Do you think that the manifold o-rings are t he most likely cuplprit or should I drop the compressor and replace all that I can


Thanks

bob c

I gave up chasing leaks in my '87, so I just replaced everything If I were a bettin' man, I'd bet on the evaporator, then the condenser, then the manifold hoses.

Seriously, I have had an o-ring blow out on the compressor-to-manifold junction. There are four o-rings that seal the compressor body to the manifold. Then two more that seal the hoses (what Mercedes calls the manifold) to the compressor. All six o-rings are the same size. It's easy enough to replace them all once you have the compressor out of the car; no reason not to do so.

I'm sure there will be some frustration the first time, but I can have the compressor out of my car in about 15 minutes, using only hand tools. It's not a bad job. Don't forget to disconnect the electrical before yanking it out of there.

- JimY