Head gasket replacing

[Kimppu]

I have noticed the symptoms of cracked head or blown head gasket and I'm planning to tear down my cylinder heads. But I have question about the A/C system before I start. Engine is -96 4.0 V6 VINX.

I have noticed that I should remove A/C hose and maybe the compressor that I have space enough. So if disconnect the A/C hoses, will the refrigerant liguid flow out? And how much I can loose the liquid while reassembling? Is there any way to check the liquid level?

And when I'm reassembling it back, do I have to remove air from the system somehow?

Has anyone good tips before I start? I'm not meaning basic tips but really usefuls.

Thanks

 

[Papa]

It holds about 3 cans of hopefully R143. I recommend you take it to a shop and have it pumped down or reclaimed and you can seal the loose ends to keep out the air and moisture. Refrigerant can cause some nasty burns if you are not careful then there is the environmental side as well.

 

[inh]

you dont need to remove the ac compressor. i just changed the head gasket on my truck, a 96 4.0 and yea the hoses can get in the way a bit, but its definatly worth leaving on and charged vs removing it and having to pay to evacuate the refridgerant, and payng to get it charged again.