I ripped out just about all of the a/c system (all the important parts anyway ) a few years ago when the clutch locked up on a seized compressor, melted my belt. I was lucky to be near a parts store so I ripped out the compressor, cut the lines to it and installed a non a/c belt.

Well, now that we have a little addition to our camping trips as of 2 months ago, we need that a/c! So, I have the old condensor core, which looks to be in good shape. I plan to change everything else, with new compressor, evap core(should probably do heater core too, original still in) , accumulator, suction/discharge hose, and the hard "air" line. Just going by the parts store terminology, not sure if the "accumulator" is the same as a reciever/drier?

I've never really worked on a/c systems, when they break I usually rip them out! So I wanna make sure I'm not missing anything. I understand you need to pull a vacuum on the system once complete to pull the air out, and replace with refridgerant/oil. Does the store bought R134A with oil cut it, or do you need more oil?

Any other tips are appreciated.

 

The accumulator is along the same idea as a receiver/drier, but it is used in an orifice tube style system and is located in the low pressure side, versus a receiver/drier which is used in a thermal expansion valve style system, where it is installed in the high pressure side of the system.

Evacuating the system with a deep vacuum is very important to remove moisture from the system, especially in yours which I assume was left open to the elements for a long period. I understand that the only original part you will be using will be the condenser but it's good to have all the moist air removed. Flushing the condenser out is a good idea too, to remove old oil and debris.

Regarding the oil, have a look at whatever compressor you buy. Some will come with all the oil already inside the compressor, and it will disperse through the system as you run it. Some will come empty. I'm not familiar with refrigerent you can buy with the oil mixed in, but the system (I think) should hold about 7 oz of oil. (you can verify that on the underhood sticker, or the service manual). So just make sure it gets the proper amount one way or another.

 

All good advice, I would add if you are replacing everything else the condenser is around $100 new and would save the trouble of having to flush. The new compressor should come with 6floz of oil which is supposed to be enough for a new system but like torquefan says check the sticker. When you pull the vacuum the system should hold the vacuum with the gauges closed. If it drops ANY you have a leak and if you charge it you will be wasting your time. Good luck

 

Ok, so factory setup is for receiver/drier? I guess I could go take a look under the hood, the old one is still there.

Thanks for the help, gonna try to get it ready before I need it for once!

 

I'm pretty sure that the system is a fixed orifice type that uses an accumulator mounted up by the firewall on the passenger side, it was on my 2001. The fixed orifice is located in the HP supply line that runs along the passenger fender behind the air filter box. Even if this line is in good condition I recommend replacing it as even the smallest spec of dirt will restrict the flow and cause improper operation. There is no way to remove it to clean it.