AC Condensor

[Jesda]

Should I bid on an AC condensor from a 91 Q with 75k? I think my AC isnt blowing as could as it should -- takes way too long to get cold compared to other Qs I've driven.

[DAEDALUS]

Why do you think the condensor is to blame? Have you tried backflushing it (and the radiator)? Unless it's damaged on the outside, I would suspect something else is the cause.

[Jesda]

I had the system flushed at the dealer last year and fully recharged with R12. Flushed and removed and gutted the radiator last year. Replaced the compressor and drier.

I honestly dont know at all whats wrong, just taking shots in the dark. Its pretty much good enough on the worst, most humid days of the year. But it takes forever to get cool, and never gets cool enough to be completely comfortable. And it pales in comparison to my minivan -- something has to be up and I dont know what. I've driven a lot of other 90-93 Qs that blow cold as soon as you turn the system on.

-Jesda

[DAEDALUS]

When I said "backflushing" I meant the outside, but if the radiator's been out, hopefully that was done. The A/C is essentially a sealed system. Did the original compressor fail? Perhaps some metal bits are in the system from a failure. I doubt they would get caught in the condensor, but perhaps in the expansion valve. Rare, but it does happen. It happened to tkd_q45 I think. A good A/C tech should be able to figure this out using gauge pressures and line temps. Are your windows tinted?

[Jesda]

Windows are tinted, yes. And the last compressor did fail.

I dont know and sort of doubt this backflushing procedure was done. I dont know what it is and didnt request it. I'll have it looked at hopefully soon.

Thanks!

[Q45tech]

Letting a compressor fail from oil abuse [the internal lubing oil] and water infiltaration [hoses and not replacing the dryer frequently]............is very common.

Unfortunately removing every other component and cleaning them of wear particles rarely happens because the shop only has to do enough to last a year [warranty] and owners won't pay the added 4-8 hours.

Condensors never fail unless damaged in a wreck.....they do need periodic cleaning outside and all o rings that seal the compressor, evap, hoses, and condenser and DRYER need periodic replacement, if you are going to squeeze every last year obtainable out of the system.