1994-2002 [Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
First of all, you really should either verify yourself or have a pro verify what is leaking - you might change stuff out and still have the leak, and a/c parts are too expensive to chase after leaks like that. You can pick up a kit at auto stores that has refrigerant with dye. Fill it up, run it, look where the dye is leaking from.
You SHOULD flush the system after you open it up (though not everyone does). You HAVE to flush the system if there was a catastrophic failure like a compressor blowout. Not flushing it after something like that will make the new compressor last about five minutes. Many compressor rebuilders and sellers won't guarantee the part unless you also replace the expansion valve at the same time and flush the system anyway.
If you don't flush, and replace, let's say, the evaporator core, there is an "average" amount of oil to replace depending on the part - if you search the internet you'll find the info. Another option is to just drain the part and see how much oil comes out, then just replace with the same amount. If the leak is large, it may not be a very accurate way though.
Whenever you open it up like that, you should also replace the receiver/dryer (along with the appropriate amount of oil). At that age, it's a good idea to replace the receiver/dryer anyway. It's better to have a little too much oil than too little. Way too much oil can lead to running problems as the compressor can't compress oil, plus the more oil you have, the less refrigerant will fit.
Another option is to just replace the parts, then take it to a shop to evacuate and replace, and tell the tech what you replaced so he can figure the amount of oil.
If you don't have a vac pump, then you have to take it too a shop. You can't just fill it with refrigerant as there will be air and moisture in the system which will mean a very short and expensive life for the compressor, and really bad cooling performance during its short life. You need a pretty good vacuum pump for modern systems. I believe it has to be able to pull to less than 50 or 100 microns for 30 minutes or so.
posted by 98.229.227...
No Site Registration is Required to Post - Site Membership is optional (Member Features List), but helps to keep the site online
for all Saabers. If the site helps you, please consider helping the site by becoming a member.
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |