replace Accumulator/Dryer or not?
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 322
Likes: 0
From: Rockford MI
replace Accumulator/Dryer or not?
I recently reassembled my A/C system in my 78. New compressor, accumulator, hose, seals. Flushed evaporator and condenser. I did have the evap and condenser pressure checked and told they were good. While attempting to charge system after pulling a vacuum on it I discovered a leak. Turns out to be the evaporator. 
My question is this, the new accumulator has now been exposed to the atmosphere through the leak, although hasn't been used yet. Do I replace it because the dessicant is saturated?
Thanks in advance!
My question is this, the new accumulator has now been exposed to the atmosphere through the leak, although hasn't been used yet. Do I replace it because the dessicant is saturated?
Thanks in advance!
Race Director
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 10,560
Likes: 439
From: Wellington, FL
St. Jude Donor '11 thru '25
I wouldn't replace it. However, I would pump the system down (vacuum pump) for several hours after you replace the evaporator. This should remove any moisture it managed to absorb. I would leave the system open for the shortest possible time. 
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 9,192
Likes: 27
From: Boca Raton Florida
If you had the system under vacuume and it leaked down that wouln't get enough moisture in there to contaminate it. If it was under pressure and leaked down it wouldn't get any moisture at all.
Former Vendor
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 76,656
Likes: 1,851
From: Jeffersonville Indiana 812-288-7103
St. Jude Donor '08-'09-'10-'11-'12-'13-'14-'15
You stated the accumulator was new; if this is the case then do not worry about replacing it. You would have to leave the system open for a long time before contamination or humidity would play a roll in the performance. When the system is evacuated, should remove any condensation in the system and you’ll be fine!
To everyone, and believe me we get this question all the time!!!!
If your compressor has taken a dump and is being replaced, always replace the drier! The drier, accumulator, VIR desiccant, which ever you have on the car will collect the metal from the compressor and eventually lead to failure of the system.
On later model cars with an orifice, you should still replace the drier. They are to cheap and will save you money in the long run. IMHO
Willcox Inc.
To everyone, and believe me we get this question all the time!!!!
If your compressor has taken a dump and is being replaced, always replace the drier! The drier, accumulator, VIR desiccant, which ever you have on the car will collect the metal from the compressor and eventually lead to failure of the system.
On later model cars with an orifice, you should still replace the drier. They are to cheap and will save you money in the long run. IMHO
Willcox Inc.
