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PointedThree :  Sedan Forums : W126 S,SE,SEC,SEL,SD,SDL Class : W126 A/C

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W126 A/C
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Author
Posted 5/16/2006 4:35 PM
Marsden
Classic MB




Date registered: Apr 2006
Location: Capital City USA
Vehicle(s): Mercedes-Benz
5000
W126 A/C

Hey guys, how dependable/durable are the A/C units in W126s?  And can you get freon or did everyone upgrade?

I know the A/C units kinda hopeless on 123s.  (Even though I also like 123s and they are incredibly durable otherwise)

Would be an issue for me since I like to drive through the Southland in summertime

 TIA..

 

#13124
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Posted 5/16/2006 10:42 PM
jdc1244

Date registered: Dec 1899
Location:
Vehicle(s):
RE: W126 A/C

126s have the same ACC system as the 123s. My 500 was converted to r134a and the 300 still uses r12. The problem with 123s is more of an electrical problem. Some 123 owners have created a dedicated circuit for the ACC/compressor with a new style fuse to avoid the overloading that seem to knock out the system. 126s seem to avoid this problem with a more robust wiring/fusing system.

The ACC behind the dash push button/temp wheel module is the same basic design. The controller’s circuit board can fail not unlike a cc amp, engine control unit, or fuel pump relay. Some modules can be fixed with a resolder of the board.

Low miles second gen 126s seem to stay clear of ACC problems and with a proper charge and a good blower motor will be able to cool the cabin well.


#13287 - in reply to #13124
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Author
Posted 5/18/2006 4:58 AM
Marsden
Classic MB




Date registered: Apr 2006
Location: Capital City USA
Vehicle(s): Mercedes-Benz
5000
RE: W126 A/C

Thanks JD that was helpful

I'm still shopping.... 

 

#13684 - in reply to #13124
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Posted 5/18/2006 12:53 PM
Naomilla2.0

Date registered: Dec 1899
Location:
Vehicle(s):
RE: W126 A/C

 

Mine failed last year - it was not the ACC unit but it was the compressor and expansion valve.  I could have opted to keep R12 but decided it was more practical to go R134a.  The system lasted 17 years so I'd say it was reasonably durable - it sucked in a way that it had to happen during my ownership.

When ordering new ACC unit, pay attention to the serial number and model year.   Strange things can happen, as in the following.

http://www.nsnews.com/issues02/w022502/024302/automotive/024302au3.html

So far, I have had no issues with R134a refrigerant, although it is true that R134a is less efficient than R12 in the W126 setup.  

Just roll down windows, open up the sunroof, put the fan on high (without A/C) for 2 minutes, then hit the AC on, recirculate air on, and close all windows and sunroof.  Within 5 minutes from starting the engine, the car is adequately cooled.

 

 

#13752 - in reply to #13124
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Posted 5/18/2006 6:57 PM
420 SE

Date registered: Dec 1899
Location:
Vehicle(s):
Re: W126 A/C

Mine isn't the ACC version of A/C but has been converted to R134a and works just fine to cool the car in the hot Queensland climate.
#13852 - in reply to #13124
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Posted 5/18/2006 11:37 PM
Jillian80

Date registered: Dec 1899
Location:
Vehicle(s):
RE: W126 A/C

My a/c is not working right now.

I had it 'fixed' last June for $1200, so it'll be going back to the shop very soon to be 'fixed' again.

When it actually worked, I didn't think it cooled very well.

#13969 - in reply to #13124
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Posted 5/19/2006 12:56 AM
Marsden
Classic MB




Date registered: Apr 2006
Location: Capital City USA
Vehicle(s): Mercedes-Benz
5000
RE: W126 A/C

Ugh... I wish I could get a non-ACC version... that's not possible in the US is it?

Jilly, that's infuriating!!  All that money...  

#13990 - in reply to #13124
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Posted 5/19/2006 1:49 AM
jdc1244

Date registered: Dec 1899
Location:
Vehicle(s):
RE: W126 A/C

Part of the problem is the compressor needs to spin at a high rpm for things to cool well. That's why some say to stay with r12.
#14011 - in reply to #13124
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Posted 5/22/2006 8:19 PM
Jillian80

Date registered: Dec 1899
Location:
Vehicle(s):
RE: W126 A/C

My car went to the shop today for A/C repair. No word yet.

I miss my car. A lot.

Riding with others sucks. A lot.

#15176 - in reply to #13124
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Posted 5/22/2006 8:32 PM
jdc1244

Date registered: Dec 1899
Location:
Vehicle(s):
RE: W126 A/C

Yes, they do grow on you.
#15186 - in reply to #13124
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Posted 5/22/2006 9:52 PM
Naomilla2.0

Date registered: Dec 1899
Location:
Vehicle(s):
RE: W126 A/C

Jillian80 - 5/22/2006 8:19 PM

I miss my car. A lot.

jdc1244 - 5/22/2006 8:32 PM

Yes, they do grow on you.

 

I can attest to both those statements.

#15212 - in reply to #15186
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