Testing A/C Parts
Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 1,583
Likes: 5
From: Richardson Tx.
Testing A/C Parts
I am sort of restoring things and have a question about A/C parts. Everything is out of the engine compartment including the A/C compressor, Evaporator and Condensor. I bought a new main line and Accumulator already. I want to be able to test the previous 3 parts for leaks etc. Is it possible to do this while the pieces are out of the car? by taking them to a shop? The A/C did not work when I bought the car so I don't know any history on it. 
Safety Car
Joined: Oct 1999
Posts: 4,101
Likes: 10
From: NorCal
on the compressor...
The R4 compressors typically leak out the front seal, sort of through the clutch, so unless it's been cleaned you should be able to see evidence of that. It should turn smoothly with some resistance, and the residual oil should be clean, not dark and cloudy. Other than that, you pretty much just need to try it. Nice part is it's right up top. Get the other parts pressure tested, and convert to r134a while your at it. The hoses should be fine. I believe they are already barrier hose, but even if they are not, I have found that the old r-12 hoses work well because they are so saturated with oil that they don't leak, as most people feared.
Hey! I have a Corvair too! Must be a virus...
Hey! I have a Corvair too! Must be a virus...
Racer
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 383
Likes: 0
From: Columbia SC
Originally Posted by 67L36Driver
By all means remove the evaporator and take it to a radiator shop to test for leaks. You don't want to have to replace it with the engine in the way. 
Then put it all back together, use new blue O rings and pull a vac. If it does not hold it then you have a leak. Nothing lost since you have not charged it yet.
