A/C Compressor Replacment?
 

Hey guys, my a/c doesn't work any more, here's the story. A while ago (maybe a month) I noticed that the a/c was not running as cool as it usually did, but only a slight difference so I wasn'y too worried about it. I had just assumed that since it was getting hotter outside it might not be running as cool. Well a few weeks ago I was sitting in the parking lot running the air for maybe 15 minutes or so and it almost instantly started blowing hot air.

I took my car to my shop and Meineke to get a second opinion and was told my compresssor is bad. I have a question about the removal and installation of a new compressor, will it be that hard? I have searched the internet and looked through my Chilton's (Hayne's) Book to see about replacement of the compressor and there really wasn't any detailed information or pictures describing this. I also know I will have to take it in to get the system charged.

I have found a new compressor setup here: http://www.partstrain.com/store/deta...EPF191106.html

I have found a how-to on the same site here: http://www.automd.com/47/how-to-repl...ac-compressor/

I am just wondering if it really is as easy as they make it out to be. I initially thought it was going to be a complicated thing, but seems more plug and play. I was also wondering what tools I would need besides the basics, what about the belt tensioner? I would also like to know any helpful tips that I may need.

Thanks a bunch in advance.

Yes, it is that easy. It's just an accessory so other than going in to have the refrigerant drained properly (don't vent it to the atmosphere please) you can just pull the damned thing off.

AFAIR it's just going to be a typical combination wrench occasion. Sockets will help removal of the compressor.

Don't trust meinike to tell you your weight. It might be as simple as recharging the system. Go to another shop and get a second opinion.

I've been needing to change my compressor. I think the bearings are messed up in it becuase I can feel the car fall flat on it's nose when it kicks on and it squeeks when wet. I don't use the A/C much. I'd delete the system if it wasnt for the windshield fogging up.

r3d: So I went to another local shop today and was told for the third time it was the compressor. When I turn the a/c on it almost stalls the car out when the clutch engages on the compressor. The rpm's drop maybe by 300-400. That's great to hear that it shouldn't be too hard. What about taking the belt off, don't I need a bar for the tensioner.

01FR500: I would delete the system too, but its my only car and it's really starting to get hot as balls here. At 9 or 10 in the morning I'm sweating my ass off and in the afternoon its just unbearable.
RANT: Also I had a little scare the other night, it was raining hard with the heavy sheets of rain and wind so I couldn't see the road and was hydroplaning all over the fucking place(worn tires). The windows kept fogging so it made it even worse as I couldn't roll the windows down without getting drenched. All in all it was the worst driving experience in my life.

you'll need an ac delete pulley. I'd imagine there's a belt short enough available as well but not sure.

I am not going to use an a/c delete, but they are pretty cheap if you want to. I think you are better off just buying the pulley than getting a smaller belt, that's just my opinion. I hope to tackle this next weekend after I order the compressor.

the pulley is a band-aid. A shorter belt would be the way to go but that depends on the belt routing and I don't know if that applies... too lazy to go look.

You can have my compressor for 100 bucks plus shipping.

How old and how many miles on the compressor?

from my 03. I've haven't turned on the AC in years... last time I did it worked. The car has 70k miles on it.

I think I am better off buying a new compressor for 200 with shipping and a warranty, but thanks for the offer. I hope to order the compressor on monday and install it over the weekend.

Thanks r3d for your help.

replacing your compressor is just as easy as replacing your alternator. the lines are attatched to the back with one bolt. replace the o-rings when you take it off. you can get them from autozone cheap. there is a synthetic refrigerant out there that i believe you don't have to worry about measuring oil and gas. on the new compressor a small bottle of oil when you get your o-rings and pour a small amount down one of the openings for the lines. then rotate the compressor by hand till it comes out the other opening.