AC Compressor replacement
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 675
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From: Sunset Beach NC
AC Compressor replacement
Took my 98 to the local Chevy dealer on Tuesday and got it back yesterday. I was told that I need to replace my AC Compressor, to the tune of $1250. Is that the going price or should I look elsewhere. I live near Myrtle Beach!
Melting Slicks
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 2,736
Likes: 7
From: Redding CA
That's probably about right.
It requires a few special tools but the job itself isn't all that hard. The water pump must be removed and the accumulator also must be changed.
All the old lines must be completely cleaned and dried out, same for condenser. Proper amount of oil into new compressor and then proper charge of oil and R134A in AC system.
It's a doable job but you're going to need a set of AC gauges, AC oil, R134A, beer, AC system flushing kit, a vacuum pump(electric) and a set of new gaskets for your water pump. You may also need a little orifice tube for one of your AC lines.
It's one of those jobs that takes all day but really isn't difficult, you have to leave that vacuum pump on the system for at least a few hours(recommended). It's one of those things that you don't HAVE to do but it's also a job you do not want to do again so better to just do it right.
It requires a few special tools but the job itself isn't all that hard. The water pump must be removed and the accumulator also must be changed.
All the old lines must be completely cleaned and dried out, same for condenser. Proper amount of oil into new compressor and then proper charge of oil and R134A in AC system.
It's a doable job but you're going to need a set of AC gauges, AC oil, R134A, beer, AC system flushing kit, a vacuum pump(electric) and a set of new gaskets for your water pump. You may also need a little orifice tube for one of your AC lines.
It's one of those jobs that takes all day but really isn't difficult, you have to leave that vacuum pump on the system for at least a few hours(recommended). It's one of those things that you don't HAVE to do but it's also a job you do not want to do again so better to just do it right.
Navigator
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 9
Likes: 0
I live in Columbia and I know a guy in Cassatt (about 1.5 hrs west of you) and he recently fixed my 99 vette AC compressor for $650. If you don't mind leaving the car there, he can get it done. PM me if you want his info.
Racer
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 275
Likes: 0
From: Waretown NJ
I agree with the first post. I did mine last year with a NEW compressor from EBay (think it was under $300). I should have replaced the water pump - depending on your mileage, something to consider.
So, I did the replacements (all parts in first post) then took it to a shop to vacuum and fill the system. You can get great instruction from here. Saved hundreds but did take almost all day.
Good luck!
So, I did the replacements (all parts in first post) then took it to a shop to vacuum and fill the system. You can get great instruction from here. Saved hundreds but did take almost all day.
Good luck!
CF Veteran
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 1,427
Likes: 16
From: Northern CA
St. Jude Donor '10-'12, '25
Safety Car
Joined: Mar 2007
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This looks like a great deal. If you do it yourself it will cost at least $400 in parts and more than that you need to buy gauges and maybe a a/c vacuum $$ you won't need later.
Post above may have had a compressor that was just fixed and not needing replacement and that may have saved significantly.
An get it done by a guy that hopefully knows how to set it up perfectly for you.
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 675
Likes: 0
From: Sunset Beach NC
Thanks for all the responses. I guess after 13 years, things are going to stop working, little by little. I was just a little put back at the prices of labor. Guess i'll have to bite the bullet and go back to the dealer and get the AC up and running because this summer has been tough, even for a vert! See you around the hood! Vetteguy98
