Ac compressor on my 280sl making loud noise

[Dngalura]

This is  dan.
For the longest time my ac compressor is making a loud noise and  it takes out the fun in driving the car. I removed my ac a while ago and I'm ready to tackle the job of taking  down the compressor for good. Now, where do I start?.   I would appreciate your help on this,  maybe, someone  who had done this or anyone  experienced on this can guide me. Searching for a thread on this maybe is available, I just haven't seen it. Again, thank you and looking forward to  hearing from the group.

[Rolf-Dieter ✝︎]

Hi Dan,

Why not have it exchanged for a reconditioned one … there are plenty of places that give you one at low cost for yours

here is an example ----> http://www.partsgeek.com/mmparts/ac_compressor/mercedes/280sl.html

I had A/c on my car they took it out in 1990 during restoration only they left the a/c compressor / pump in place. I had it taken out since then and I have it for sale (not listed yet, I might even keep it).

[Dngalura]

Rolf,
Thanks for your recommendation, for now, my plan is to take this compressor out, maybe for good. What I need now is a road map or instructions where to begin in taking it out.
Dan

[ja17]

Hello Dan,

We can guide you  through the procedure. First of all, once the AC bracket and compressor is removed, you will need an original style alternator bracket. The alternator will re-locate to a lower position on the engine. Other lesser items needed, are new fan belt, some shorter bolts etc. Read up on the hood removal procedure.

[Dngalura]

Joe,
Thanks.  After the hood is out, most of the work will be from the top?
 What parts do I  remove to make easy access to the compressor?
 Is it wise to replace the water pump or just check it out or replace gasket ( it's working well with no leak, only replaced maybe  4-5 yrs ago) ?
 Does the radiator need be out? 
Where can I get  alternator bracket once it's relocated ? And which, pulley should it be hook up?
I would appreciate all advices I can get.
I would read more on a safe and secured hood removal.
Dan

[ja17]

Hello Dan,

After hood removal, unhook the battery and take the alternator off. Next remove the engine fan blade and it's pulley. You will now see the scope of the project. The monster AC bracket is visible. This is where the difficult work begins.  Some of the bolts holding it on are behind the front crankshaft balancer. There are other mounting bolts behind the compressor, holding the bracket to the engine block. Get a good light and look carefully. They are  difficult to see or remove.  The front crankshaft counterweight need to be removed also. The 6mm allen bolts holding the dampner on can be tough. Leaving the radiator in makes it even tougher. You may wish to remove it also. There is also a brace going from the compressor bracket to the right side motor mount. 

You can re-use the old water pump pulley, but only one groove will be used. The original alternator bracket is NLA from Mercedes, but plenty are available used.  They used them on most of the 6cyl sedans of the era. Yes you can replace the water pump if you like, but with the compressor bracket gone you can do it fairly easily in the future now. It is also an opportune time to replace the front crankshaft seal. You would have to remove the large 27mm bolt and use a puller to remove the crankshaft vibration dampner first.

This is a difficult job .I don't know any easy way out.  Make sure you have the tools to do the job.  A good quality 6mm allen socket that you can use on a 1/2" ratchet handle works well on the six tough crankshaft pulley bolts.

[ja17]

Hello again Dan,

Do not under estimate the difficulty of this job. Depending on your ability, experience and tool assortment, you may want to get some help the first time.  I would expect to spend five or six hours on this project myself and I have done it many times before and know all the tricks and tools to use.  Plan on spending at least three times as long yourself. You'll be back here from time to time for tips and advice most likely.

[Dngalura]

Joe,
I thank you so much for upfront honesty.  You're right, I'm not under estimating this job, I know it's huge.  Time is on my side, but, as you said, ability, experience and available tools are huge factors as well.  I will heed your adviced , and seek the help of my mechanic . I spent a lot of time reading the Forum, on different subjects and this helps a lot . I even read issues and their solutions,even before it happens.  I have trouble shoot issues and have fixed them. Issues like Brake force regulator, brakes in general, fluid lines, ignition, etc... To name a few. I could not have done things if it were not for this forum. This gives me the confidence, because I know I can seek help from this group. I'll come back to this issue after I come back in several months. For now, I'll prepare  my sl for storage.  On going  suggestions or advices are more than welcome.
Thanks again.
Dan