AC compressor
Instructor
Joined: Nov 2019
Posts: 149
Likes: 28
From: Belle Isle Florida
A lot of things need to be removed just to remove the compressor. The biggest thing is the freon unless yours has already leaked it out. I had an estimate 3 days ago of $700.00 just for the labor. I have a new compressor and dryer which are the major parts for the job. My compressor is still blowing cold but very noisy at times and I think it locked up once kicking off the drive belt. I think I could replace it myself except for the freon.
Drifting
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 1,645
Likes: 65
I did mine this past summer, with the receiver dryer, strainer and condenser luckily the compressor did not destroy itself so did not have to flush the balance of the system (evaporator). Wasn't bad replacement, exhaust manifold and water pump have to come off just a lot of wrenching but not not difficult. After all is replaced evacuate system and 26 oz of R134a and you are done.
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Joined: Mar 2001
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Le Mans Master
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 7,386
Likes: 4,762
From: Eastern Corn-Nation
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Like stated already, it's not a really hard job but is time consuming. If your compressor hasn't quit and gernaded the insides then you could probably get by without flushing the system. I did mine a little over a year ago and just took my time. Moving the exhaust manifold made it much easier to get to the rear hose bolt. I have the shorty headers on my car so I'm not sure how the stock manifold is to get access to that bolt. Post up your issues and we'll be glad to help you out.
Drifting
Joined: May 2020
Posts: 1,663
Likes: 699
From: Baton Rouge, Louisiana, metro area
Manifold?
I am about to tackle this job on a 99 vert because I believe mine is leaking. In the process of confirming the leak.
I have found a few write ups on this job and don’t recall seeing where the manifold is necessary. I see the water pump needs to come off, though. Actually found one on you-t where he got the compressor out without removing the water pump - but I would not even attempt that.
I attached one of the very clear write ups I found and downloaded, but I have not confirmed this process myself. If anyone can validate this for us, it would be helpful.
I have found a few write ups on this job and don’t recall seeing where the manifold is necessary. I see the water pump needs to come off, though. Actually found one on you-t where he got the compressor out without removing the water pump - but I would not even attempt that.
I attached one of the very clear write ups I found and downloaded, but I have not confirmed this process myself. If anyone can validate this for us, it would be helpful.
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