Mercedes: A/C cooling, c280, cleaning machine

Question
Hello Robert,
My 1994 C280 with nearly 300K mi. has been a very good and reliable car. Lately, the A/C hasn't been blowing cool air like it did in the past.
Could I service this problem myself without committing to a MB A/C servce at the dealer?
Please advise, thank you, Ed.

Answer
Ed,
This probably a case of low refrigerant. If the  AC uses R12 you will probably be better off to locate an independent AC mechanic. R12 is not available if you are in the US without special license. The recovery and cleaning machine will vacuum the unit and recharge it to the correct amount. It is not cheap because of the limit place on R12 recharging.  R12 can be  30.00 per pound or more. Depending on how long it took the freon to leak out, you may need to check of leaks and have them repaired before charging.
It is not uncommon for there to be some leakage around the compressor seals particularly if the AC has or defrost units have not been activated.
If your unit is 134A, this system can be serviced by the consumer. You will need the 134A charging can and a set of gauges unless the can come with a self contained gauge. The 134A charge valves are much larger that those on an R12 system.
Good Luck. Let us know if you have quesitions.
Robert