A/C barely cools when outside temp is over 80F
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Super Member
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 977
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From: San Jose
300TE / 300E / 300CE
A/C barely cools when outside temp is over 80F
I've did the 134a conversion on my wifes 300E but was not impressed with the difference in temp drop. I know the A/C is a weak feature. Is there any way to improve the system? Adapt another compressor, new gas, etc...?
Super Member
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 800
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From: Northern Cali
W124
I think all W124s have this problem. You can try everything from replacing compressors to R134a conversons and the A/C will still suck. I hear some people rewire their electric fan to stay on the entire time the car is running but I don't know if it will help the a/c system. The fan does take a toll when you do that.
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Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 76
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From: Hedgesville, WV
1990 300E 2.6
I have seen a few other comments about the ineffectiveness of the AC on 124s. I can not agree! My 1990 with the original Denso compressor does an outstanding job, even in 95+ degree weather. To function as designed, the system must be in top shape. All the vacuum motors/doors must work properly as well as the electrical/electronic components. Some have been pleased with the conversion to R134a but most experts will tell you that it just does not cool as well in a system not designed for it from the ground up. R12 is very reasonable now and will probably continue to be so because the demand has dropped. My newer Jeep Grand Cherokee does not cool as well or drop the cabin temp. on a hot day as fast as the Benz. My system was opened once to replace the dreaded evaporator. At that time all the vacuum motors were replaced as well as the expansion valve. The system was pumped down, leak tested and recharged. Five years later, and with the original compressor, it still has a full charge and cools like no tomorrow. Don't know how I could want more.
Super Member
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 800
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From: Northern Cali
W124
Originally Posted by oliverb
R12 is very reasonable now and will probably continue to be so because the demand has dropped.
