A/C Disconnect
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Aug 2013
Posts: 19
Likes: 0
A/C Disconnect
I am getting ready for an engine swap. I have the hood off and next step is to remove Rad and A/C cooler etc. What do I need to do before I start disconnecting lines to the A/C pump and A/C cooler coils? Do I simply open them up or is there a proper method for draining (freon).
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 6,422
Likes: 591
From: McHenry Illinois
The correct way is to have the refrigerant recovered so it does not vent to the atmosphere. That being said, sometimes a hose fitting will get loosened and no one knows. Once the hoses are off, be sure to cap them to prevent excess moisture and debris from entering.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 2,417
Likes: 336
From: Texas
i just bungee corded/tied my ac compressor out of the way during my engine swap. i didnt discharge any freon. remounted afterwards , still works.... i didnt remove the radiator either, unless you're changing it out...
Last edited by speedreed8; Oct 13, 2014 at 09:33 PM.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 8,812
Likes: 2,029
From: eastern NC
If you are planning to reinstall A/C after the engine swap, it's a good idea to have a local shop that handles these things recover your freon (R-134?), assuming there is still refrigerant in the system. That way when you're ready to recharge the system the shop will already be familiar with your set-up and be more willing/eager to help you out.
Be sure to cap off the lines and open connections to prevent dirt or debris from entering the system if you intend to reuse them.
Good luck... GUSTO
Be sure to cap off the lines and open connections to prevent dirt or debris from entering the system if you intend to reuse them.
Good luck... GUSTO
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Aug 2013
Posts: 19
Likes: 0
Thanks for the advise. I am going to stick with my original plan to completely remove the rad and A/C cooler as there is some additional work needed in that region.. I am having a hell of a time breaking the A/C liquid line connector open at the bottom of the A/C rad. Its a really tight spot and offers no leverage room. Can I put heat to this connection??? I could cut the line, but it is an expensive line to replace. Will the complete Radiator assy lift out with this line still attached.
Last edited by 1977C34ME; Oct 16, 2014 at 08:24 AM. Reason: added detail
Burning Brakes
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 844
Likes: 6
From: Fort Wayne, IN
if you're going to be removing the entire system, cut away. If it's the original, you'd probably want to replace it anyway. Generally, you want to "two wrench" a/c connections. Keep a flame away from the a/c lines! (FYI, the "a/c rad" is called the condenser)
