AC Compressors for the M116/M117 and 6.9

[c107]

The early and mid M116 and M117 engines, along with the 6.9 used the Frigidaire A6 compressor for the airconditioning. This was only changed in the final generation models in the W126 to the Nippondenso from 1985.

This would be applicable to cars like the W116 V8s (the sixes used a York), the Series 1 W126 V8, the 107 V8s to 1985 and so on.

The original Frigidaire went out of production in 2024, and there are now a few alternatives you can use.

1) Rebuild your original A6.
This is possible, but not something I wanted to do. I've never had good success with rebuilt AC compressors. There are people around who can still do it, as that compressor was widely used. However, given the cost of fitting, the need for a new drier, regas and so on, I think this is a false economy.

2) Buy a rebuilt four seasons A6.
These are the most commonly available compressor to buy. They are not new, but a rebuilt version by four seasons. They have a pretty terrible reputation. I would think that option 1 is better than this one. You'll find this on all the sites like FCP Euro, pelican parts and so on.

3) Buy a AKS-DASIS compressor.
I don't know much about this one. Its made in China and I really couldn't find any information about people using it successfully. So I don't know if its any good.

https://www.autodoc.parts/aks-dasis/1731902

4) Buy a PRO6TEN

21-2201SH | Compressor | Pro6TEN | Super Heat Style | Single Groove

Pro6TEN A/C Compressor, upgrade for A6, Super Heat Style with Single Groove Clutch

www.oldairproducts.com

I've seen quite a few good reviews of people using this one, and I seriously considered it. Those reviews were not on Mercedes-Benz and so I wasn't 100% sure it would be a drop in replacement. Its a new modern compressor in an aluminum body and its more efficient and much lighter than the old A6.

5) Buy a Sanden S6

S6 Compressor (Replaces Delco / GM A6) – Klima Design Works

klimakit.com

Similar concept the PRO6TEN, but a different supplier. I found less reviews on this, but the vendor specifically mentions it for the Mercedes W116 and I've bought from them before and know they stand behind their products.

So i'm ordering #5 for my 450SE. I would have also been happy with #4 too.

 

[Styria]

Bryce, thank you for all of that information. You have obviously done your homework. Full credit. In my own right, I have actually been able to have two original A/C Delco units refurbished and rebuilt by a professional located in Australia. For the time being, I personally will make that my preference.
N.B. I would also point out that I am utilizing this post to test my PC system that I have had problems with. So I am hoping that I will be able to address my own shortcomings. Regards Styria

 

[c107]

Bryce, thank you for all of that information. You have obviously done your homework. Full credit. In my own right, I have actually been able to have two original A/C Delco units refurbished and rebuilt by a professional located in Australia. For the time being, I personally will make that my preference.
N.B. I would also point out that I am utilizing this post to test my PC system that I have had problems with. So I am hoping that I will be able to address my own shortcomings. Regards Styria

I'll be interested to hear how you go. My experience of rebuilt compressors is that they leak after only a couple of years, I hope you have better success.

 

[Styria]

For me, this was, or is, a matter of learning. What prompted me into action when I was given a price of $AUS3500.00 to go from "go to whoa" - to rectify Air Con problems with my Gleaming Beauty - obviously a 6.9 - for those new to TK. Just kidding. I should add that the quote allowed, or recommended, the use of a brand new Chinese manufactured Compressor. I have since heard a whisper that the quality "may not be all that good". I certainly cannot comment upon that whisper, but that's bye the bye.
I started looking around for alternatives available, but there seemed to be very little by way of options that were available - that is until I recalled some of my dealings some twenty five years ago with an Auto Electrical company not far from the Eastern Suburbs. I managed to establish contact with them (after all of those years) and they were instrumental in providing me with contact details of an ex employee now long retired but who was the technician that had worked for them and had been responsible for dealing with all of their Air Conditioning jobs for many years. For me, that was good enough.

I went to see him with my two clapped out units, and he assured me that he would indeed be able to rebuild my units. He operates from home, has all the equipment and spare parts (within reason only) but he was able to convince me that rebuilding was perfectly reasonable and whatsmore, feasable in most instances. I trust this person because he has done nothing else but rebuild all manner of compressors and apparently has never had any issues with his work. Choosing to go with his expertise, and entrusting the installation of the rebuild replacement unit by the Auto Electrician, should save about $800.00 from the original quote of $3500.00. To me, that's a goer. Regards Styria

 

[Oversize]

Personally I’d go for a much lighter unit thats more suitable to the newer gases. But the mounting & drive mechanisms would be the deciding factors