Do I need to replace accumulator when compressor replaced?

[jbserra]

I just replaced the accumulator due to a leak. It worked for about 2.5 hours on my drive to the convention and then my compressor clutch blew. First, is this a sign of some other issue, or just that the clutch was ready to go? Second, when I pull out the compressor (again) to replace it, do I need to replace the accumulator? I've heard things about doing both at the same time, but the existing accumulator has about 3 hours on it. Is this step just to cover you when the compressor internals break up and send crap through the lines or is this a must do every time? I'm hoping I can reuse this part and just seek out the near impossible to find 10P15F compressor that seems to be unique to my car.

Thanks!

 

[greenbeanmtx]

I'd spin the compressor by hand and if its very resistant, then I'd say they are related. If it spins without much effort nice and smooth, then I'd say its not related. As long as the compressor is good, a bad clutch doesn't put junk in the system so you dont have to replace the accumulator again. If the compressor seized up causing the clutch to go, then its recommended to replace the accumulator because its nearly impossible to get the junk out of it while flushing the system.

 

[jbserra]

it is still spinning. Great. Thanks for the confirmation.