New to Nissans, have a few questions...

[cocheeze]

Hello all,

Hopefully I am posting in the correct forum.

I recently picked up an '82 Nissan Stanza, and I have a few questions.

First, the A/C system is done for, and I hate engine compartment clutter. Would it hurt anything if I just removed the evaporator(the part in front of the radiator), all the hoses, and the electrical hook up for the pump and just left the pump in place? I did it on my '89 Subaru w/o a hitch, but I don't really know about these cars...

I am also looking at having to replace both halfshafts... any hints or anything I should watch out for w/ that job?

Does anybody know a way to diagnose a non-working rear window defroster? Any common problems?

Thanks in advance for any advice...

Casey

[AZhitman]

Welcome Casey!

You can remove all that, just be advised it's a PITA to put back if you ever want a/c again. If you pull it, pull the pump (compressor) as well.

Halfshafts aren't too bad, follow the instructions that come with the rebuilt ones. AutoZone is a good source, or BAP Imports.

No clue on the rear defroster - Check the switch, fuses and the connection wire on the window.

[cocheeze]

I am not sure I am following you... If I pull the pump, won't I have to find new belts that are different sizes? What would be the benefit of removing the pump? Or the problem with not removing it?

I ususally just leave it in place, because if it can't kick on, its not really hurting anything, is it?

Thanks for the reply.

P.S. I thought the system was totally flat but it wasn't... A little bit of air and yellow fluid came out when I loosed the fittings. Should I be worried about coming into contact w/ the yellow fluid/vapors?

Thanks!

Casey

[Rex]

Well, if you release the freon, any potential "harm" was in the air, otherwise, I'm not sure what you're referring to??

As for removing the pump, the pulling even (theoretically) free spinning, is a "load" on the engine. If you're after the full benefit of removing the AC (weight/resistance), then you should be able to find a blet that will fit, just try a good parts store.

Rear def is either the fuse or a crack in the rear "wires" (the ones in the window), usually not worth repairing if it's more than the fuse.

[AZhitman]

That "yellow fluid" is dye and oil. No harm. The "air" was freon. Won't hurt anything but the ozone layer.

The AC if I recall correctly is the only thing run by that particular belt. Otherwise, yes, you'll need a smaller belt. Not a good idea to leave it on the car if it's not gonna be used - it's an extra "load" AND it will be unlubricated (it's empty).

[cocheeze]

hey thanks a lot for the info guys.

I think you guys have good points about the resistance/non lubricated thing , so I plan to remove the pump. I think there is one other thing that the belt runs over, but I'll figure it out.

Unfortunately, it may take a lot of guesswork since "good" auto parts stores don't exist around here!

Thanks!

Casey

[cocheeze]

bad news... looks like the power steering pump is exclusively dependent on the AC pulley. The crank pulley goes to the AC pulley and then a seperate belt entirely goes from the AC pulley to the power steering... so much for removing the AC pump!

[cocheeze]

should I be worried about the AC pump seizing up since there is no lubricant inside? Should I periodically lubricate it through the holse for the hoses? Thanks!