Replacing A/C compressor

[breaksr]

One of my friends has a 1996 Maxima GLE and the A/C compressor died right when it got real hot outside. I see you can buy the part on eBay reconditioned for about $180. I want to know if there are any special instructions on how to install it and if there are additional parts that are needed to install.

[loystock]

Before replacing the compressor, did you verify it's really dead? Incorrect refrigerant level, contaminated refrigerant, faulty expansion valve, defective compressor clutch, etc., can disable the compressor. Compressor and other AC component replacement are best left to certified shops, unless you have the required equipment to perform the service. Your other option is to have the system evacuated at the shop and then you can work on it. That's the route I take when I need to replace AC component in my car. Remember, it is illegal to discharge refrigerant into the atmosphere.

If the compressor is really defective, it is advisable to replace the Receiver-Drier (a.k.a. Liquid Tank), too, as it can get saturated with water vapor once exposed to atmosphere. Before charging the system with refrigerant-oil, the system has to be evacuated again to remove residual contaminants.

Refer to the link below for more information on how to diagnose AC problem. Use AC Manifold Gauge to check low and high pressure of the compressor. It can be rented from car parts store (maybe free from Autozone).

http://www.nicoclub.com/FSM/maxima/1996/HA.pdf

[breaksr]

Yes, I've been reading your messages posted on a different A/C question and it does look like I need someone to evacuate the system before dismantling. According to my friend he took it to a shop and they diagnosed the problem as the compressor ($1000). Currently it does not blow any cold air so I thought it would be empty on R-134a but I guess that might not be true. I've forwarded your message. Thanks.

[NutriaforBreakfast]

When the system is evacuated the technician will check and see if it will hold a vacuum.
If it does, then he will know it does not have an opening or leak in the system. The tech
will use a evacuation pump to collect the refrigerant. Generally, the longer it is kept evacuating the
better (your getting more old refrigerant out). If it does not hold a vacuum then he will have
to find the leak before proceeding further. If the system was totally empty, you would
probably have the compressor "burning up" as the compressor needs oil in the refrigerant
gas to compress. It would be very loud most likely.

Why does the shop think its the compressor? The FSM will give you the specs/PSI for the
low side and high side. You might ask the repair shop what the compressor PSI was on the
high side and the low side. Did they use a manifold gauge to check the PSI? Is the compressor noisy?
How do they measure how much oil and refrigerant to put in?

Good luck

[breaksr]

The tech tried to recharge the system and realized there was a leak so he then put the chemical dye in the system which leaked out of one of the seals on the compressor.

[loystock]

I just hope not much refrigerant had escaped into the atmosphere. Unfortunately. most shops will just replace a compressor instead of doing overhaul. So just like as 'Nutria' has said, make sure the system is evacuated before and after component replacement. And don't forget to replace the Receiver-Drier, too.

[NutriaforBreakfast]

You might ask to be sure there is only one leak. That dye is tricky stuff to read
I did a general cleanup of the engine compartment before using the dye first to
make the job easier/more complete. I guess after the compressor or compressor
seal is replaced, he should do another evacuation of the system to get the air and
water out first (starting over) BEFORE he adds refrigerant. I also would hate to
get billed for 2 receiver dryers if possible too. I dont like the fact he didnt check his
vacuum before trying to recharge-or did he?

[enduroexpertfsr]

if the compressor bombed out, it would be strongly suggested to flush the lines, and replace the expansion valve or orafice tube. along with the drier

[loystock]

One of my friends has a 1996 Maxima GLE and the A/C compressor died right when it got real hot outside. I see you can buy the part on eBay reconditioned for about $180. I want to know if there are any special instructions on how to install it and if there are additional parts that are needed to install.

You have to verify first before replacing the compressor as it can get expensive and special equipment needed to do the job. It would be better for you to have an HVAC tech hook up an AC Manifold Gauge to find out what the problem is.