A/C Repair: Any way to DIY?

[semperfidoordie]

My truck has a complete A/C system in it, however as of now it isn't working. This may not be the right place to post this but I couldn't find a forum to fit it and was wondering if anyone could hold my hand and walk me through the process to trouble shoot the A/C system myself as the various shops I've talked to gave me figures from $500-$1000 to fix it.

[big_al_71]

when you say your a/c is not working I have a few questions to ask:

*Is the a/c blowing hot air?

* Does the a/c compressor clutch engage?

* What is the the exact problem you are having?

A/C is not really complicated but you need to have some specialty tools,

A/C gauges, A/C Evaquating System the one we have in our shop is from Robinair to discharge and recharge the a/c system, you also need a voltmeter to check electrical wires...

there are several components that you have to look at:
First of all check it for leaks, check the a/c blower resistor, check the blower motor, check the a/c clutch, check the a/c switch..check the a/c blower switch...

The price they are quoting you seems awefull high....

[nightmare]

Now would be a perfect time to switch it over to R-134. Probably the shops were quoting a price using R-12 (liquid gold basically). Anyhow, like big al said, it isn't complicated.

[MrC1]

Mine was leaking around the clutch, so I replaced the compressor/clutch combo. Turned out it was much easier than trying to replace the clutch and seals.

At the same time I replaced the dryer, whachoocallit valve and all the o-rings. It took about 3 hours including sucking it down for 1 hr and messily filling the compressor with oil. That was the fun part.

[semperfidoordie]

I guess I'll have to actually hook the belt up to it and see what happens when I do that cause right now I haven't tried it but the compressor turns over by hand so I don't think that's shot...it's just a matter of seeing what happens when I hook the belt up I guess...Don't know anything about A/C systems so I'm kind of taking a shot in the dark...

[JimKshortstep4x4]

I would suggest getting a Service Manual for your truck as it has an excellent section on AC's, including the specs and all the technical stuff you will need.

Jim

[WorkinLonghorn]

Chances are there was a leak and there hasn't been any freon in there in years. If there is no pressure in the system,there is no use putting on the belt. The outer pulley will rotate of course but the clutch will not engage to turn over the compresser until there is pressure.
You can bypass the low-pressure cut-out switch to make the clutch engage.but without freon cirulating around,there won't be any oil getting to the compresser and you may ruin a good unit.
Best thing to do is take it into a shop and have it leak tested. My AC guy uses 300 PSI Nitrogen. He can tell you where the leak (if any) is. Then usually it's just an O-ring. It could be the compresser seal or a bad evap or condenser too.
Once you replace the leaking part you will need to replace the filter/drier.Then fill with freon. I used to get my R-12 in Mexico but have switched over to 134.
I have a way of charging without use of vacuum pump or gauges but I'd be flames mecilessly if I posted this.
Probly better to pay the man and have it done right.

[semperfidoordie]

Thanks for the help everybody. Anyone know where to pick up a Service Manual for the truck locally or do you have to order them online?

WorkinLonghorn: I have an auto hobby shop here on base so for starters you say have it leak tested? Then go from there?

[WorkinLonghorn]

That's the #1 reason for failure. Find and fix the leak,relace the filter/drier (any parts store) vacuum,charge and test it out.
The reasob for the filter /drier change-out is that is is responsible for removing any moisture that gets into the system. Moisture is in air and when it gets into the system it can ruin it.Any Air in the system also makes it perform badly. That's why it is necessary to totally vac out the system before you charge it up. As I mentioned there is a red-neck way to get it going without much $. You can even leak test it yourself either with the kit sold in stores or just by adding a can of freon and putting soapy water on every conection (not fool-proof,but you just might find the leak).

[semperfidoordie]

So what's a reasonable price in our neck of the woods to get the A/C leak tested? And where would you recommend?

[WorkinLonghorn]

The last time I had it done it was somrthing like $30 . The time before that it was $40 at a real expensive place in Burbank,BUT they rechecked it again after I made the repairs which was cool.
Don't go to PEP BOYS, I went there and they just used shop air,which is about the worst thing to use since it is moist.