A/C question...

[DHMag]

can i just replace the compressor without replacing everything else ? my A/C tech friend says i can but everywhere i read, ive gotta replace everything to have any kind of warranty...

 

[snowwind1990]

Unless for some written reason I can't think of any others. The "grandfather clause" applies to OEM before 1996 replacements...any later purchases are at most 12k/12mths....
So what warranty are you talking about???? Not by FoMoCo.......a "Gold Extended" type?
Anyway, remove the shims if you don't want cold air/defrost/heat....if not, consider a rebuild of your own compressor, if that's your only problem..look in the yellow pages, contact salvage yards.

 

[luigisho]

You can just replace the compressor but I think your friend is right. The warranty may not apply if you don't replace other system parts as they may have contributed to the failure of the previous compressor.

 

[rangerj]

The three parts store I deal with on a regular basis are associated with the suppliers, NAPA, Carquest, and Federated. They all are subject to the same warranty policy for A/C compressors. The compressor will not be covered unless the filter dryer and any other contaminated parts are replaced, AND all other parts of the system have to be properly flushed (cleaned), AND the work must be done by a licensed A/C mechanic. Your friend is right.
You could replace your compressor with one from a salvage yard, or take your chances and get a new or rebuilt compressor and not worry about the warranty. But think about it! What killed you first compressor? Even if it was just old age, where did all those microscopic bits of metal go in a sealed system? Most of it gets trapped in the filter. But some of it is deposited throughout the system. This is the stuff that will **** a new compressor. How long will it take?
Will the compressor last longer than the warranty period? Just some thoughts.
A new compressor will cost around $300, A filter dryer around $100. The flushing kit is around $50. I would also replace all the "o" rings and springs at the connections, as long as your at it. There will be several hours labor to, dissasemble the system, flush the system, reassemble the components, evacuate the system, recharge it, and check it for proper operation. This is one job where it pays to do it right, in my opinion. rangerj

 

[aviator22]

If you only replace the compressor you risk the possibility of contaminants (Somtimes from the result of the compressor failure) creating a blockage in one or more location throughout the system. This is similar in theory to a blood clot or cholesteral in your blood stream. If you get blockage the system may build up too much pressure and damage the new compressor. (Kinda like a heart attack of the compressor) You can get away with just replacing the compressor in some cases, but you are always taking a chance when you dont flush or replace the other items. As a parts distributer it is diffu=icult to justify warrantying a new compressor knowing that this situation exists.

I just replaced the entire A/C system in my SHO with the exception of one item. The evaporator. Here are a couple of ideas to keep in mind.

1. Get the disconnect tools from auto zone for about $10 to remove the lines. I bought another set first and they were very expensive. I thought it would be better to get the best tools and not replace them later. The reality was. The "Best tools" cost more and didn't fit the lines well. The Autozone plastic tools worked great.

2. Make sure to pull the both plugs out of the components before connecting the lines. There is a usually both black rubber plug insert and a clear plastic exterior cap to keep moisture and contaminants oput of the lines and components.

3. Test fit all parts before connecting them up. A lot of after market parts (especially condensors and accumulators do not always fit real well.

4. Make sure to route the liquid line to the evaporator behind the low pressure line. If you don't you risk having it abraised by interference with the rear pulley on the engine.

5. Beware of damaged inlets/outlets on your old components. I had a problem getting the lines to lock "click" into place. The problem ended up being that the old evaporator outlet and inlet was slightly deformed and would not fit properly with the new lines.

6. Make sure all "O" rings are inplace before installing the lines!!

7. Prime the compressor!!! It works well to pour about 10 oz. of refrigerant oil into the low (suction) side of the compressor. This way it is drawn through the compressor the first time the A/C is activated following re-install ensuring that the compressor is not run "DRY" They are prelubed a little bit, but they need oil so make sure and prime em!!!

8. If you are unfamiliar with how an A?C system work. Familiarize yourself well before working on one so you clearly understand what you are doing and what not to do.

9. Good luck

Mark