1980 Mercedes Benz 450sl expansion valve replacement

WRENCHER

MEMBER
1980 MERCEDES BENZ 450SL
V8
2WD
AUTOMATIC
100,000 MILES

Seems like the evaporator is in center console. Where is the expansion valve located, (left/right side) and where do I start to replace it? Have changed the compressor and the drier(flushed the condensor, ) how do access the expansion valve and is there any problems reinserting the cap tube into the evaporator?

1 Reply

SCOTTINSOCAL

MEMBER
22 POSTS

The expansion valve is located on the driver side (US models) of the housing. Pull the lower dash by removing the bolts just under the steering wheel, and one further down, close to the carpeted section of the center console. Be careful when removing it, because the convenience light and wiring is attached to it.

If you look up, you'll see the lines coming in from the engine compartment and the expansion valve on the side of the housing. Whether you'll be able to R&R it without removing the dash and the whole housing is probably a 50/50 shot.