1970 280SL with A/C Radiator Removal

[campin8tor]

We have a 1970 280SL with Air Conditioning, unfortunately a leak in the radiator has developed. We do not want to remove the A/C along with the radiator as we we dont want to have to recharge the A/C system. I have heard this to be challenging but wanted to see 1) if anyone had tips for us to make the work easier and 2) if anyone has step by step instructions (I know wishful thinking but ya never know).

We already have already:

• Drained the coolant
• Removed the hood
• Removed the Air filter
• Working on removing the bolts on the bracket that connect the A/C to the radiator

Curious if we are on the right track or not, if anyone has any tips to get to some of those bolts, etc... Any help would be very much appreciated.

Thank you..

[waltklatt]

Remove fan assembly from motor. Remove fan shroud.
Radiator can be dropped with a bit of wiggling around.

[campin8tor]

Thank you @waltklatt., but isnt the AC attached to the radiator? Will removing the fan assembly/fan shroud allow more access to those bolts? Thank you..

[ja17]

Sorry to say that if you have the original dealer installed AC, you will have to remove the condenser with the radiator.  Small flat head screws hold the condenser to the side of the radiator. These are not accessible until the radiator and condenser are out of the car.