High yield methods for the synthesis of cis-[MR2(COD)] (M=Pd, Pt; R=3,5-C6Cl2F3), cis-[MR2(THF)(2)] (M=Pd; Pt), trans-[PdR2L2] (L = tht; SMe2), trans-[PtR2(SMe2)(2)], and [M-2(mu-Cl)(2)R2L2] (M = Pd, L = NCPh, tht, SMe2; M = Pt, L = tht) are reported. These complexes are general precursors for the preparation of other complexes containing cis-MR2, trans-MR2 and MClR moieties in almost quantitative yields. Thus, by displacement of COD, THF, tht or SMe2 by other ligands, almost any isomer of any complex with one or two aryl rings can be prepared. The F-19 NMR spectra of these complexes are simple compared to those of other polyfluorophenyl groups, and some examples of the spectral advantages of this partially fluorinated ligand are given. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science S.A.