Compressor Replacement Procedure
Compressor Replacement Procedure
Compressor Replacement Procedure
2. Remove failed compressor from vehicle. Transfer any switches, sensors, brackets, or
manifolds from old compressor to new compressor (the manufacturer may supply these parts
with the compressor, therefore cannot guarantee their functionality).
3. Thoroughly flush each component not being replaced with an approved A/C flush solvent.
Once each component has been flushed of all contamination, it is necessary to air dry these
components using compressed and filtered shop air to ensure no flush solvent is left in the
system. (NOTE: Many components CANNOT BE FLUSHED, such as driers, accumulators,
expansion devices, mufflers, filters, parallel flow and 6mm design condensers, and
compressors. Any time one of these components becomes contaminated it must be replaced.)
5. Install replacement compressor ensuring proper mount and alignment. (NOTE: before the
installation of any compressor a comparison of both the failed and replacement unit must be
done to ensure the proper compressor is being installed).
6. Install an in-line filter in the suction line near the compressor. This will prevent possible debris
from entering the compressor. The installation of a liquid line filter will help prevent possible
debris from entering the expansion device. THIS IS A CRITICAL STEP IN THE
COMPRESSOR REPLACEMENT PROCEDURE. The largest percentage of premature
compressor failures is the result of debris, which was not removed during the flushing process,
entering the compressor or expansion device.
7. Add the proper type and amount of oil per manufacturer’s procedures. Some remanufactured
compressors are supplied with the correct system charge of oil which is compatible with R12 &
R134a. (NOTE: If proper flushing procedures have not been followed, an overcharge of oil will
occur, thus reducing performance and causing premature compressor failure.)
Compressor Replacement Procedure , cont.
*These capacities are approximate and are intended for single systems only.
For dual systems, add 2-3 additional ounces (depending on hose length).
For exact capacities see OE service information.
NOTE: If oil capacity is not listed above, please refer to original manufacturer’s manual for capacities.
8. Evacuate system to minimum 29 in. vacuum for ONE HOUR to ensure that all moisture and
residual flushing solvent are boiled from system.
9. Recharge system using R12 or R134a only. (NOTE: If the system in which the replacement
unit is to be installed was originally designed for R12 and the replacement gas is R134a,
please refer to the subsection.) It is imperative the system is charged with gaseous refrigerant,
NOT LIQUID as this could lead to immediate compressor failure. Also be sure to use a scale
or metering device to ensure the proper amount of refrigerant, specific to the vehicle being
serviced, is used. (NOTE: Improper refrigerant charge is another major cause of premature
compressor failure and poor system performance.)
10. At this time a complete performance test of the system must be conducted. As in virtually all
compressor failures, it is impossible to perform this type of test with a failed compressor. The
proper performance of each component in the system must be evaluated. Remember that
most original compressor failures are the result of another failed component within the system
and, if not attended to, the compressor will most definitely FAIL AGAIN. Some common
components that can cause these failures are condenser and radiator fan motors. Many of
today’s cooling fan systems vary the cooling fan speed; therefore, ensure that maximum fan
speed has been achieved when the compressor clutch is engaged. DO NOT ASSUME IT,
TEST IT! In addition, plugged or dirty condensers, malfunctioning expansion devices, system
leaks, failing electronic components, and excessive under hood temperatures contribute to
compressor failure.
11. Failure to follow the steps outlined above may result in a repeat compressor failure!
Subsection (Retrofitting)
If the system is to be or has been retrofitted, additional steps must be taken. First, all
government regulations that pertain to retrofitting must be followed. Second, the correct type
and amount of oil must be added. (NOTE: Some remanufactured compressors already
contain the correct oil required for retrofitting. Often new compressors contain no oil.) Third,
condenser must be evaluated. Any copper condenser and many other older style aluminum
condensers should be replaced with more efficient parallel flow condensers. Fourth, additional
cooling fans must be installed to improve existing condenser efficiency. R12 condensers alone
are not efficient enough to adequately condense R134a.