Another component to replace on the Mercedes Benz 300D

Posted By on June 1, 2013

If it isn’t one thing, it is another when it comes to an old car in an unknown condition. Thankfully I’m getting to know my new beast and am thoroughly enjoying learning about and repairing some of those “unknowns.”

BadAuxFan_MB300D130530

The latest item in the multiple air conditioning components that I’m replacing is the auxiliary fan motor. The old one was seized up and well crudded up with every bug, needle and leaf from here to California (the 1982 MB 300D’s original home). After taking the 12V motor apart, it was apparent that the bearing were shot – and instead of rebuilding I found a fan pulled off of a 1985 MB 300D with 85,000 miles on the odometer for $36. Whew … if it works, it will be a good deal. For now, on with pulling a vacuum, adding “the right amount” of oil and charging with refrigerant.

(EDIT: Decided not to invest in a vacuum and manifold set-up and will instead have my friend Tim Ellison of Mr. Godwrench plug it into his fancy machine. Also, here’s a great PDF Tip Sheet for diagnosing compressor noise.)

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Desultory - des-uhl-tawr-ee, -tohr-ee

  1. lacking in consistency, constancy, or visible order, disconnected; fitful: desultory conversation.
  2. digressing from or unconnected with the main subject; random: a desultory remark.
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