MB Enthusiast

I have a 1997 E320 and I recently replaced the compressor and I think the dryer was done at the same time but no hoses.

Less than 3 months later the AC began to seem less cool than usual

Yesterday the EC light on my AC control came on after hearing a wining sound in my vents

I think dye was added but I don't know how to alluminate or check for leaks

Any suggestions?

ohlord

if you are up to the challenge you can charge the system and inject dye for detecting leaks,find a dark garage and get a uv lamp and locate the leak.Or add r134a and go to harbor freight tools if you have a store near you and get the electronic sniffer for about 70 bucks and locate the leak that way,or go to a shop and get it located and fixed.# months is a sizable leak,so you cant just charge it and hope for the best.It is repair time.
ohlord

Yacht Master

Was it a new or reconditioned compressor? For most compressors to be covered by a warranty a dryer must be installed at the same time the new/recon compressor. Now if it has a 90 day warranty time to get her done.
You do have a leak. My first guess is a recon compressor shaft seal has checked out. Remove engine belly pan and look at bottom of the A/C compressor and if you see fresh oil on compressor take it back to who ever did the work.

I only use new parts, cause labor and loss of use weigh so heavily. The re-manufactured parts are for cars that are to be sold, quick cheep fix and down the road it goes.

Uv lamp will illunamate the leaks, if you have one sitting around.