Hey, how much is involved in changing this out? Can i do it myself or does a shop have to do it because of the refrigerant and what not? I can do the mechanics/ nuts and bolts of it. Just never changed one and trying to find out what all it involves. Thanks a ton!

It's a 97 civic ex non vtec

 

so youve swapped engines then? cause a 97 civic ex came equipped with a vtec engine. well i changed out the compressor on my 91 civic si last summer. had a bad valve and lost all refridgerant. safest way is to have a shop do it if theres any refridgerant left to remove from the system. whats wrong with your compressor?

 

The system needs to be properly evacuated before replacement, than a proper vacuum pulled before any refrigerant and additional oil for the system can be added. This should be done by a professional who is certified in refrigerant and recovery from ASE. plus its a hefty fine or possible jail time for evac'n refrigerant into the air. if your caught of course.

 

You can rent the vacuum from Autozone though. It's not hard to change it out. Changed mine out with a brand new one last spring. Also replace thed the evap can and condensor. On Texas hot days (80-110). It feels like Antarctica inside my car!

 

I would pay a shop to recover the refrigerant. You may even be able to pay someone that does HVAC work to do it on the side since 134a was used in home air conditioning as well. After that it's a matter of unbolting the lines from the compressor and the compressor from the bracket. I would replace all the o-rings before having the system recharged so you minimize your risk of leaks.