I cracked my AC compressor a while back when the jack slipped and hit it. I got a new one coming soon.

Can I just unbolt the compressor and slap on the new one then add the R-134a? Or will I need to have the charge removed, then replace the compressor and then have it "serviced" at the dealer?

I assume there is no "charge" since I added some R134a with a UV dye and saw that it was leaking from the compressor? It's now blowing hot again from the vents.

Your thoughts.....

 

well the thing is that if the system is left "open" for too long the receiver/dryer will need to be replaced. the dessicant bag inside there absorbs moisture and will not function properly. Also in order to properly charge the system you need to place a vacuum on the system to create a negative pressure, then properly recharge the system with the amount of r-134. if you overcharge the system you could creat big problems like components going out because of too much pressure, when the shops recharge they use a scale to make sure the correct amount of refrigerant is going in the system. if you dont have experience, then my advice is to take it and get it recharged properly.
you can install the compressor and save yourself money from install but when it comes to recharge, take it to a qualified tech

 

did this dye come in the refridgerant or was it seperate? I've been looking for this stuff for awhile (for motor oil, etc.)

 

To save some ozone layer and environment for our children, please go to a licensed a/c service shop and have them remove all r134 from your a/c lines.
Then remove the a/c compressor and bolt up the new one, you may want to put in a new dryer too.
Then refill the lines by a licensed a/c service shop to ensure proper oil to r134 mixture and pressure.

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by 2camsaam &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">To save some ozone layer and environment for our children, please go to a licensed a/c service shop and have them remove all r134 from your a/c lines.
Then remove the a/c compressor and bolt up the new one, you may want to put in a new dryer too.
Then refill the lines by a licensed a/c service shop to ensure proper oil to r134 mixture and pressure.</TD></TR></TABLE>

How safe is R134a compared to R12 anyway?

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by irev210 &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">

How safe is R134a compared to R12 anyway?</TD></TR></TABLE>

R12 is the ozone eater, R134A is perfectly safe for the environment.

As mentioned, you'll need to apply a vacuum to the A/C system to drain out all the water, what wasn't mentioned is that you'll need to do that over night, maybe even 24 hours.

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by ryanstev &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">

R12 is the ozone eater, R134A is perfectly safe for the environment.

As mentioned, you'll need to apply a vacuum to the A/C system to drain out all the water, what wasn't mentioned is that you'll need to do that over night, maybe even 24 hours.</TD></TR></TABLE>

thats what i thought, that R134A wasnt as efficent as R12, but was safe... i just didnt want to call that guy an idiot w/o being sure

 

Thanks for the help!!

I was just worried about opening up the system and having problems. Sounds like I will be okay.

I planned to replace the compressor myself then to take it to the dealer (friend is a tech) and have them recharge it the right way.