PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum - View Single Post - W116 300SD Air Conditioning Upgrade (Parallel Flow Condenser, Sanden, Larger Fan)

Squiggle Dog · #8 08-08-2015, 11:15 AM

I am getting conflicting information. From the research I have done, I concluded that R12 replacement is the most efficient, followed by R12, R12/R134a blend, and lastly, R134a. But now I'm hearing that R134a is more efficient than R12.

Also, my research concluded that expansion valves were superior to orifice tubes, but due to cost, orifice tubes are used in most cars. Now I am hearing the opposite.

Also, which engine oil is better to use; synthetic or mineral, and which brand?

It didn't seem to me like there is enough clearance to fit dual parallel-flow condensers, at least not without making it difficult to remove the radiator and oil cooler. I decided to keep it as simple as possible.

I've never been a "fan" of electric fans, but obviously they are needed in front of the condenser. I did upgrade to a plastic 9-blade fan with the small pulley on the engine.

I currently have an 80 amp alternator, which is better than the 55 amp one my car was made with. Hopefully it's sufficient for the electricity I use. What's nice is that I can install a 150 amp one when this one quits.

I'm converting my car to the manual heat system.