Thanks DOC for the reply. I figured it was the compressor but I'm not too disappointed because I'm one step closer to solving the problem. I've found a new Denso replacement for ~$300 which sounds very reasonable and the drier and expansion valve are cheap.

I see some other "OE" compressors out there that looked tempting until I found out they're from China.

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-Paul-
'01 E430, Sport 72,000 mi
'98 C280, 126,500 mi