Compressor Exchange

[cyborx]

hi peeps!!

chrysler voyager 2.5 csl 2003 mk4

has anyone on here changed an air con compressor themselves and has any advice to share?

i think that mine has destroyed itself and i am looking at changing it myself to lower the cost of the job.

i recon i am pretty competent as a mechanic (no formal training tho) and have the requisit 2 spanners and a hammer so really just wondering how hard can it be and do i need any specialist gear (screwdrivers)

any advice would be welcome.

Jon

[nigelhobbs]

Hi again Jon first of all the aircon system is full of nasty gas R134a if released into the air it don't mix but goes up and burns away the ozone layer for the next 1000 years that's why we suck it out and reclaim it Basically releasing it should be avoided

Anyway changing the compressor ain't that hard Release the drive belt , release the two pipes and then the four bolts holding it on the block also the electric plug undoing the bolts is awkward you need a 3/8 drive socket kit and a knuckle joint I don't think anything is in the way Take care when it's released it's very heavy your going to be under the car it hurts if it falls on your face !

Back to the gas , if you do release it don't let it spray on your skin it can frost burn and that can be very nasty the oil is also not too pleasant don't get it in your mouth or eyes .keep the pipes clean and dry the aircon system must be totally free of contamination . You can get it regassed at most quick fit garages If you fit a new compressor don't run it dry it will seize in seconds

[bignev]

And of course knowingly releasing refrigerant gas is genuinely a criminal offence.......

 

The AC system has a pressure switch will not run it (pull the compressor clutch in) if it's too low.

 

Possibly best to get it degassed / reclaimed first then remove it, and pop back to have it regassed with the oil when the new one is on.

 

It is very important the system doesn't get any crud in it, so be careful with a second hand unit from a breakers for the usual crap all over it with no holes plugged.