A/C compressor for R230

[rexemper]

Afternoon all
The a/c in my '05 R230 wasn't blowing cold at all on Friday as I was driving into London. Thought it may need a top-up so took it to a local garage that I know well.
Long story short, they said there is plenty of gas in the system, but what is happening is that the compressor isn't kicking in.
No leaks in the system, no error codes being shown.
So, where should I look for a new/reconditioned compressor?
Thanks

 

[SL63 Mark]

Umm, it might be electrical. Compressor usually makes a lot of noise before it fails. Have it checked by a MB specialist with Star Mercedes diagnostics before shelling out.

 

[rexemper]

Thanks, good advice.

 

[alexanderfoti]

Does seem a bit odd. The MB Diag can show how much current the valve on the pump is drawing. Gives a good indication if its actuating the AC or if there is a fault preventing AC from kicking in (pressure sensor values etc)

 

[rexemper]

Well, its even odder now. I went out and had a look, poked around near the belts and the compressor, switched the a/c off and on etc. Went to switch the car off and it was blowing cold air!
Took it for a drive and it carried on working. Magic?

 

[alexanderfoti]

Bad connection, or pressure sensor reading on the edge of where it should be. Fingers crossed it stays working!

 

[Craiglxviii]

Well, its even odder now. I went out and had a look, poked around near the belts and the compressor, switched the a/c off and on etc. Went to switch the car off and it was blowing cold air!
Took it for a drive and it carried on working. Magic?

Magic is indistinguishable from sufficiently advanced technology, or fixing R230s.

Arthur C Clarke said so