My initial thought is that IF the system was basically closed (tight) before disassembly, and IF it wasn't filled with contaminants, then you may get by with a new compressor and accumulator. And that is predicated on the assumption that the existing condenser and evaporator are OK. I'd want to get all of the components that are planned for reuse inspected and (pressure) tested before reinstallation. Of course the 'new' system will need to be checked for leaks, and have a vacuum pulled before recharging the system with the proper refrigerant. I am far from an expert on AC systems, and hopefully some other members can add their comments as well.
How far gone is air conditioning after sitting for 10 years?
Hey everyone! Question about the A/C in my 94 2.2L. I bought it from an older guy last year for 1k. He told me the A/C hadn't worked in roughly 8-10 years. I never bothered trying to fix it since I've had it, but I recently burned an exhaust valve and had to pull the head. I then realized my piston rings are cooked and now I'm pulling the engine. It seems like if I'm going to do all this work, now's the time to try and fix A/C. I was forced to disconnect the compressor and accumulator and get them out of the way to prepare for pulling the engine. I knew there was 0 refrigerant left btw, so nothing leaked that hasn't been gone for 5 years. I also stuck clean towels in the refrigerant lines/accumulator after I disconnected them.
The compressor is definitely bad, bearings are shot. I know I need that and an accumulator if I want to make the A/C work. But I'm curious, after sitting for this long (and after exposing it to the atmosphere during the engine swap) is the whole system probably going to be shot? Meaning, is it likely that I'll need a new condenser and evaporator as well? I can't decide if I should just bolt the dead compressor back on and forget about it, or if I should try and fix it. Thoughts? Thanks!
The compressor is definitely bad, bearings are shot. I know I need that and an accumulator if I want to make the A/C work. But I'm curious, after sitting for this long (and after exposing it to the atmosphere during the engine swap) is the whole system probably going to be shot? Meaning, is it likely that I'll need a new condenser and evaporator as well? I can't decide if I should just bolt the dead compressor back on and forget about it, or if I should try and fix it. Thoughts? Thanks!
1 - 9 of 9 Posts
Thanks for the insight. Is there any way I could pressure test the components myself? Also do you know if the new accumulator would come with an oriface tube preinstalled? Thanks!
If the compressor bearings are shot, it's likely the entire system is contaminated with metal filings. Something like that, it's probably best to replace everything, condenser, evaporator, accumulator. Best done by a professional. Sorry.
I would flush the whole system. get new compressor, accumulator/drier, orifice tube and o-rings for all things you remove. fill with recommended and quantity oil. also with dye to help display any leak. reassemble and take to shop who can evacuate system to check for leaks. if no leaks fill with proper refrigerant and enjoy.
Most companies won't warranty a compressor unless you replace the condenser and drier. No sense leaving the evap core in there.I would flush the whole system. get new compressor, accumulator/drier, orifice tube and o-rings for all things you remove. fill with recommended and quantity oil. also with dye to help display any leak. reassemble and take to shop who can evacuate system to check for leaks. if no leaks fill with proper refrigerant and enjoy.
Sounds like this is a job for another time unfortunately. I gotta get this truck back on the road before I go back to school Jan 10th. Its winter, A/C can wait lol. Thanks for the advice guys. I'll probably leave this to a professional shop. Rebuilding my engine is proving hard enough!
Did your ‘94 have R-12 or R-134a refrigerant?
R134a thankfullyDid your ‘94 have R-12 or R-134a refrigerant?
1 - 9 of 9 Posts
- This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. Please consider creating a new thread.
S-10 Forum
S10forum is the community to discuss the S-Series, Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon. Join to discuss rebuilds, modifications, tech articles and more!
Full Forum Listing
Explore Our Forums
