Replaced the AC compressor

[98SHO]

This was a couple months ago but I ended up replacing the AC compressor after it went boom. It was quite a bit of labor but was straight forward work and not too hard to figure out. Obviously some of the right tools make a big difference. I installed it and then had a shop blow out the lines and everything and recharge it, total cost about $500. Better than the $1100 I was quoted from the mechanic.

I've never seen a compressor blow up like this before, it started making a loud ticking noise (at first I thought it was the engine) and then boom!

 

[Izzmo]

Wow.. that's crazy. I didn't think the ac compressor built up that much pressure inside of it.

Kinda cool to see inside of it though like that.

 

[Vnuk1]

You sir have a new paperweight!

 

[CanadianSniper]

Just for curiosity sake, changing the compressor you had to open the system. If you have it working again, may I ask what you charged it with?

 

[98SHO]

Just for curiosity sake, changing the compressor you had to open the system. If you have it working again, may I ask what you charged it with?

Mmmm I'm not sure. I just bolted it back on and took it to an AC/Heating shop and they attached the lines, vacuumed/blew it out, and charged it back up.

 

[CanadianSniper]

The reason I asked is due the availability of products on the shelves! These products are extremely flammable! You might just as well take your barbacue tank and charge you a/c!

Here's and example! "A refrigeration mechanic and auto electrician were repairing an air conditioning unit in an old model Toyota campervan that was using hydrocarbon refrigerant.
It appears that while the refrigeration mechanic was working on the unit in an auto service centre, a quantity of flammable refrigerant escaped and came into contact with an ignition source. An explosion and fire engulfed the internal engine compartment and front interior of the vehicle resulting in serious burns to the mechanic and auto electrician"

I can't mention the products brand name, but for heavens sake don't use them. The proper refrigerant is non-flammable ie R12 outlawed, R134A. Notice the R, Notice the can in the store 12a replacement. Your putting propane or butane in your system. Wanna hear a kaboom? Develope a leak !

Just an FYI