The AC compressor on my 02 QX4 was running a bit loudly (no squealing but a loud wearing out bearing kind of sound). In hindsight I should have taken it in, but AC was running fine and cold until a few days ago. Heater works, but no AC cold air. I took it to a shop here to have it checked and they claim I'll need to replace the compressor, the refrigerant control valve and the condenser besides running a flush on the system.
My question is; is it necessary to change the condenser? Seems a bit much as the failure seems to have come from the compressor itself.
Blown compressor; flush condenser or must replace?
Re: Blown compressor; flush condenser or must replace?
If the compressor had a catastrophic failure -- typically small metal parts get moved around the system. You have to insure that the system is cleaned. It's not worth taking the risk w/ some parts given the cost. Part cost and the labor to try and clean. AC systems operate under very tight spaces and just one missed shaving will stop the system. You must replace the receiver dryer and the control valve ... it looks like some of the condensers include the R/D ... the cost is only $80. That may be why they recommend the condenser. On the Path the condenser is often hit by rocks .. and it may be of a design that can't be easily cleaned (many are). I would follow the recommendation of the people who know. The more you can replace the better. No one wants to speed excess cash on something like this .. but you get "one shot" ... you don't want to have any future problems. Make sure you get a quality compressor. Unfortunately, there is no way to 1/2 fix .. the cost to evacuate and recharge should you have an future problem will more than east up any savings trying to cut corners now.
Re: Blown compressor; flush condenser or must replace?
Yeah, that seems like the smart choice. I am planning on selling it so kind of an unwelcome time, but still. Appreciate the feedback.