Howdy,

First post, long time lurker. Hope I can get some tips about my W123 A/C compressor.

This is my second '82 W123 300TD. First one never blew cold air and I never messed with A/C. The W123 I'm driving now did blow cold air, which my wife liked a great deal. This is my first time messing with A/C and I'm in over my head. I replaced the engine and about everything else in the other car, except for A/C.

I have not drove the car much this summer. I noticed the A/C wasn't working around the beginning of July. In the beginning of August the voltage regulator went. Along with the voltage regulator, I also replaced drive belts because they were worn, and I sorta hoped it might do something to kickstart A/C. I broke the A/C tension bolt when replacing the belt, and mcgiver'd a temp replacement bolt to test recharging system. I also noticed the wiring harness that clips on to A/C was all chewed up, so repaired it with electrical tape.

Belts tensioned correctly, voltage regulator in place, I started the engine, tested recharging system, then turned on A/C. There was a brief squeal, then the engine stopped. I replaced the a/c tension bolt with OEM bolt I bought from Pelican, adjusted the belt bit, engine still stalls when I turn on A/C.


Is the A/C compressor seized? I believe it's the original compressor. The previous owner told me he put a great deal of work to get A/C working. If there is something else I should try before giving up on the A/C (to my wife's dismay), or start looking at replacing the compressor?

I already ordered a new CONTITECH belt, because the belt on there now, i found in the trunk, unmarked. Kinda doubt this belt will help, but open to any suggestions.

-Thanks!