Protect air conditioning circuit and components from moisture when carrying out repair work - AH83.30-N-0005-01A

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 42 other vehicles, including the 1999 Mercedes-Benz S600, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S500, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S420, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S320, and 1999 Mercedes-Benz CL600. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

All models fitted with air conditioning

Do not carry repair operations out on the air conditioning circuit in the open air during moist weather.

Moisture in the refrigerant circuit reduces the system's refrigeration output and leads to damage to the components. The acidic substances produced by moisture within the system decompose the desiccant in the fluid reservoir and damage the entire system.

After separating/unscrewing refrigerant lines, immediately seal off the connection openings so that they are airproof using suitable stop plugs (parts kit).

Replace the fluid reservoir every time you open up the refrigeration circuit.

Always store all spare components in a dry, sealed-off area. Do not remove stop plugs in new components until just before they are installed. Use special care when handling the receiver/dryer with its integral desiccation unit.

When a receiver/dryer is left open, the dryer unit quickly becomes saturated with moisture, rendering it useless.

Check drier cartridge packaging for damage. Dispose of drier cartridges with damaged packaging.

Install the desiccant cartridge no later than 20 minutes after opening the packaging.

Further protection against moisture is provided by carefully evacuating the air conditioning system following repair operations. By generating vacuum in the system, the evacuation process removes any moisture that might have penetrated into the system.