A/C Compressor installation

[Briscoe]

My a/c compressor on my 1995 xlt explorer is jammed. I was planning to get a new one installed, untill i got a $700.00 estimate . I was told that I would need to replaced the evapotator and the orifice. Could I just buy a compressor, have it installed and have a shop charge the unit witout changing Evap. & orifice? help

 

[yob_yeknom]

I would think so. I've never heard of having to change them along with the compressor. You will need to change the filter though. Most compressors come with a warranty, and you have to change the filter at the same time or the warranty is void.

 

[highball]

Hey Briscoe,
You can change your compresser , filter and then go have a local shop charge it for you. It's only a suggestion to replace everything else. It's a good one but it doesn't have to be done. And like most things if you have a little bit of time and mech ability youcan do it yourself. I just did it About a month ago. If you you use your a/c alot you might want to change it all though.

 

[Briscoe]

a/c compressor

Thanks alot guys, I will try to install one myself. Should I get one with a clutch or not and where exactly is the filter.? your responce will be appreciated

 

[jimmiecakes]

Check the warranty conditions of the replacement compressor before you "save" money. If your old compressor self-destructed, just where do you think the shrapnel went? After you install the new compressor, where do you think the shrapnel will wind up?

All of my suppliers stipulate at least orofice tube (about 12 bucks and has a very small hole - but being mostly plastic will join the shrapnel on it's journey), condenser (first stop for compressor innards) and drier.

Anything else is Russian roulette with your wallet..... YMMV.

 

[MrShorty]

I replaced my compressor this past summer. The compressor I bought required a new accumulator/drier and orifice tube to maintain the warranty. I didn't open the accumulator to see what was inside, but the orifice tube was clogged with all kinds of crud. I would certainly recommend replacing it.

A thought if you choose to do it yourself. If in doubt consider replacing whatever it is (condenser, evaporator, tubing) while you have it empty and apart. Save having to take it in and evacuate the system again if you find a problem after getting it together. I kind of regret not replacing the liquid line while I had mine out. I don't think there was anything wrong with the old one, but with all the crud that was in the orifice tube, it would have given me peace of mind to know that I hadn't accidentally left something behind.

 

[Triton46]

What is the location of the orifice tube on a 91 - 94? Also, can you change it out on a fully charged AC system or should the system be evacuated?

Mine seems to be running fine, but I would like to check/replace seeing as it is 11 years old.