What does the condensor do? (Newbie question)
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Apr 2003
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From: Gilbert Arizona
What does the condensor do? (Newbie question)
I'm just learning, so I'm looking for details in an understandable format :)
What is the function of the condensor in my '89 coupe? I'm talking about the unit that looks very similar to the radiator, which is in front of the radiator.
What's involved in replacing it?
Also, it seems odd to me that you'd put this unit in front of the radiator, since you want as much air flow across the radiator as possible (and the condensor blocks direct air flow!). Any comments?
TIA
What is the function of the condensor in my '89 coupe? I'm talking about the unit that looks very similar to the radiator, which is in front of the radiator.
What's involved in replacing it?
Also, it seems odd to me that you'd put this unit in front of the radiator, since you want as much air flow across the radiator as possible (and the condensor blocks direct air flow!). Any comments?
TIA
Drifting
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 1,861
Likes: 4
From: Houston TX
Re: What does the condensor do? (SkunkCar)
Think of the condensor as a "radiator for the A/C system", which is why it's placed where it is. When the A/C compressor compresses the refrigerant, it puts a LOT of heat into it, which the condensor removes.
It's pretty easy to replace the condensor. You have to remove the radiator fan shroud, disconnect the two lines going to and from the condensor, and lift the condensor out...there are no bolts or fasteners holding it in place, just the radiator shroud.
It's pretty easy to replace the condensor. You have to remove the radiator fan shroud, disconnect the two lines going to and from the condensor, and lift the condensor out...there are no bolts or fasteners holding it in place, just the radiator shroud.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2002
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From: Kyle TX (Because Mojo Made me fill it in)
Re: What does the condensor do? (CorvetteZ51Racer)
:iagree:
But you also want to evacuate the system correctly of any refridgerant before you do the R&R. R12 is harmful to the Ozone and R134a is just damned cold if you get it on your skin. After you replace the condenser, you want to make sure your system has the proper amount of AC lubricant (typically PAG oil). Once you reseal the system, you will want to pull a vacuum on the system to make sure there are no leaks and moisture prior to recharging the AC system with the proper cooling agent (R12 or R134a).
But you also want to evacuate the system correctly of any refridgerant before you do the R&R. R12 is harmful to the Ozone and R134a is just damned cold if you get it on your skin. After you replace the condenser, you want to make sure your system has the proper amount of AC lubricant (typically PAG oil). Once you reseal the system, you will want to pull a vacuum on the system to make sure there are no leaks and moisture prior to recharging the AC system with the proper cooling agent (R12 or R134a).
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2001
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From: Athens AL
C7 of the Year - Unmodified Finalist 2021
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Re: What does the condensor do? (VetteNoob)
The compressor compresses the gaseous refrigerant. It takes in cool gas and compresses it then discharges it at its discharge port.
Through the use of air flow provided by the main fan or aux fan, the condensor cools this gas down converting it to liquid which is still pretty warm when it leaves the condensor.
The liquid is sent to the Accumulator/Drier, which has a dessicant bag that removes some moisture. There is no temp change here.
The liquid is then sent to an orifice tube, cycling clutches in the compressor maintain correct pressure.
Next is the evaporator, which gets warm air blown across it, and the heat from the air is lost to the liquid, which goes back to gaseous form and back to the compressor. The cooled air comes out the vents.
Through the use of air flow provided by the main fan or aux fan, the condensor cools this gas down converting it to liquid which is still pretty warm when it leaves the condensor.
The liquid is sent to the Accumulator/Drier, which has a dessicant bag that removes some moisture. There is no temp change here.
The liquid is then sent to an orifice tube, cycling clutches in the compressor maintain correct pressure.
Next is the evaporator, which gets warm air blown across it, and the heat from the air is lost to the liquid, which goes back to gaseous form and back to the compressor. The cooled air comes out the vents.
Racer
Joined: Jun 2002
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From: Dallas Tx
Re: What does the condensor do? (vader86)
As to the position of the condenser, the A/C unit is typically capable of 60 degrees of drop max from outside ambient to inside cold air. So if the temp is 100, the A/C blows 40 degree cold air.
If the condenser was behind the radiator, it would see air that was 150 degrees or more. A/C performance would be lousy. Some A/C units, notable the GM units of the 70's, would cool off Iraq in the summer. The Vette system is somewhat more marginal.
If the condenser was behind the radiator, it would see air that was 150 degrees or more. A/C performance would be lousy. Some A/C units, notable the GM units of the 70's, would cool off Iraq in the summer. The Vette system is somewhat more marginal.
