Where is the interior temp sensor on a 1986 560SL?

[donbryce]

Well, I'm a new 1986 560SL owner, and here we go with the problems. The climate control system is in really bad shape. I have a 1985 380SE with what looks like the same system, but the interior temperature sensor on this car is up on the windshield header, by the rear view mirror. I once had a 1975 450SE, and it had a sensor on the top of the dash.

A previous owner has installed a dash-cap, and I can't find the sensor anywhere. So, can anyone tell me for certain if the sensor is covered up under the dash-cap? I'd hate to rip it out for nothing, but the system sure isn't gonna work right if it's buried under this cap. Or is it somewhere else?

[Alkraut]

The vent is located on the top of the dash, in the center. To get to the sensor (thermistor) you will need to access it from the glove box area. Remove the glove box (pushpin fasteners). There is a foam tube that goes up to the sensor. Often the foam is dry rotted and gone. This tube draws air in across the sensor. There are wires with a connector under the dash. The plastic vent is two pieces, and has a part that comes off from the underside. Don't try to pry the louver top part, it has to come apart below before it comes up and out. The plasic part holds the sensor, and the air tube comes in on the plastic nozzle. I replaced my sensor (got it from Fastlane above). I used clear plastic tubing from Home Depot to replace the foam tube.

[donbryce]

Thanks for the response! I suspected it was up there, buried beneath the cap. I just hope the cap isn't glued down too well, as it will have to come out to cut the hole for the sensor. I just can't beleive how stupid some people are, installing those things like that!

[Louis M]

Hey Don i had a real good laugh when i read your opening statement --here we go with the problems -ha ain't that the truth---Louis - nice home page by the way.