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.
4) Buy a PRO6TEN
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
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.
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.
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
5) Buy a Sanden S6
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.
