a/c condenser replacement
Thread Starter
Safety Car
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 4,394
Likes: 6
From: Melbourne FL
a/c condenser replacement
The question is: if you replace the condenser do you also have to replace the accumulator?
I have searched the manual and I can't find anything that states the accumulator must be replaced but, I know in the past that once the system was opened most techs would replace the accumulator/dryer unit. Does anyone have some insite on this?
I have searched the manual and I can't find anything that states the accumulator must be replaced but, I know in the past that once the system was opened most techs would replace the accumulator/dryer unit. Does anyone have some insite on this?
Intermediate
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 48
Likes: 0
The problem with a blown compressor is the fine metal shavings go everywhere in the system and you need to remove them or you are wasting the green on a compressor only repair. I replaced the accumulator/dryer and orifice tube (they were both filled with shavings) and flushed the system completely with solvent and compressed air. This was last summer, no problems since. It's worth the extra $100 invested in the GM dryer (I found the aftermarker model for $30 was too tall and did not fit). Best of luck.
Thread Starter
Safety Car
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 4,394
Likes: 6
From: Melbourne FL
Thanks for the reply.
My compressor is fine. I have to replace the condensor due to a frontal crash so I don't have to worry about metal shavings.
What I am concerned about is the moisture in the system since the accumulator contains the desicant bags whcih absorb moisture from the system. And my car is currently sitting at the body shop with the condensor removed and the system sitting open.
Anyone else have some thoughts on the matter?
My compressor is fine. I have to replace the condensor due to a frontal crash so I don't have to worry about metal shavings.
What I am concerned about is the moisture in the system since the accumulator contains the desicant bags whcih absorb moisture from the system. And my car is currently sitting at the body shop with the condensor removed and the system sitting open.
Anyone else have some thoughts on the matter?
Tech Contributor
Joined: Dec 1999
Posts: 32,910
Likes: 2,402
From: Anthony TX
CI 6,7,8,9,11 Vet
St. Jude Donor '08
YES! It should be changed!! If you have a damaged condensor (system depressurized) most likely, you lost the oil that was in the condensor (each component hold a fixed ammount of oil) and that will need to be replaced. If you change out the receiver/dryer (strongly recommended) you will need to add the correct amount of oil to that also. Make sure that they pull a good vacuum on the system prior to charging it.
The main reason for replacing the receiver /dryer is to insure that there is ZERO moisture in the system. If there is moisture, it will cause acids to form and the acid will eat the system from the inside out. You will get pin hole leaks in the evaproator and condensor and you will see money flow out of your wallet at break neck speed!!
There will be people that will tell you that they have never had to replace the dryer and their system works fine. Damage happens over a LONG period of time.
Bill C
The main reason for replacing the receiver /dryer is to insure that there is ZERO moisture in the system. If there is moisture, it will cause acids to form and the acid will eat the system from the inside out. You will get pin hole leaks in the evaproator and condensor and you will see money flow out of your wallet at break neck speed!!
There will be people that will tell you that they have never had to replace the dryer and their system works fine. Damage happens over a LONG period of time.
Bill C
