Advice/Help on ML320 A/C condenser

[dac77]

Hi,
My 2001 ML 320 A/C condenser has a leak and needs to be replaced. I'm
planning to do it myself - getting the condenser in/out doesn't look to
bad once the cross member (where the hood latch is located) is removed.
I already bought a r134a recharge kit and have a couple of questions.

1) Is the recharge port the fitting located just inboard of the driver's side
headlight?
2) If so, how do you get the plastic cap off?? I wanted to verify the fitting
on my recharge kit will fit, but I can't get the cap off short of breaking it.

Any suggestions/advice would be appreciated.

Thanks much
Dave

[Matt L]

Be sure to add the appropriate ammount of oil to the system. You can go by the recommendations for replacing the condensor, and you will probably be close. The only way to get it right is to flush the system and start anew.

You also need to evacuate the system before you charge it. You might want to take the car to an AC shop for that part. Also replace the dryer, immediately before evacuation.