Factory air retrofit, need 380SL parts car
 

This winter's project is factory air retrofit into my 280SL (Euro) "economy":D model (6 cyl., manual trans., roll-up windows, cloth seats, no cruise control). I need a complete (mostly) 380SL for parts. 1982 through 1985 only, wreck, beater, or abandoned project. Can also be a Euro 280SL or SLC (same R107 body) with factory AC. Should be in Mid-Atlantic region, doesn't have to run, major rust OK, color doesn't matter (although blue interior would helpful). Has anyone out there done this? Understand its a lot of intellegent grunt work, but it would take my 99% car over 100%. Please see wanted listings in cars and also parts forums. Any leads appreciated. Thanks!

I, uh, really have not thought it all through yet but I removed the AC from my "83 280SL and can't decide if I should retain it (for What??) or let it go.
I really can't see myself re-installing it and yet maybe the next guy will want too... Will I ever sell my beloved SL? Who knows. I am torn but I am leaning towards getting rid of clutter.
I never removed the evaporater and the hoses are toast but everything else is good.
I might, uh, maybe, uh want to see it go to a good home......

Well, at least you are thinking about selling the stuff. I'll keep that in mind, but I think I'm going to need a lot more than you removed...stuff like the underdash vacuum lines, wiring harnesses, pushbutton controls, dash wood cover, etc, etc. I'll get back to you when I know more about what I need to change out and add to go from a heat only system.

i have no 107 experience but we did convert a euro 280e non air to air. it was a lot of work. we had to change the entire evap unit under the dash. my indie charged me 1500 labor over 15 years ago...and i think he lost money on it.

some would say 'who needs air in an sl?'

tom w