A/C Compressor help

[sperz1]

I've tried to search on the forums without much luck.

I'm fairly certain the compressor on my 85 has gone bad. All was working fine, then it started clicking very loudly, and my a/c died shortly there after.

I want to change out the compressor myself but my repair manual doesn't list the procedure. I'm going to have a shop evacuate and charge my system. Is there anything I need to know before I jump into this? I've heard I need to oil the compressor before install, can anyone lead me in the right direction? I've also heard I should change the dryer. I'm not even sure what that is!

Sorry for the newbie type post. I'm pretty familiar with auto maintenance, but the a/c system is something that is totally new to to me.

[Slonaker]

Make sure the compressor is bad and not the clutch. If it is just the clutch, you can replace it without opening the system.

Slonaker

[sperz1]

Originally Posted by Slonaker

Make sure the compressor is bad and not the clutch. If it is just the clutch, you can replace it without opening the system.

Slonaker

How would I trouble shoot that?

[babyJay]

Originally Posted by sperz1

How would I trouble shoot that?

shoot voltage directly to it and see if it pulls in.

[454HO]

If the compressor did self destruct, then there is high probability of metal debri in the system. If you don't flush it all out, your new compressor won't last very long. There are commercial a/c flushes available, but I just use mineral spirits. And you'll need an air compressor to blow it dry.

Yes, you will need to replace the receiver/dryer. It is that silver aluminum canister on the passenger side near the firewall. I would recommend a new orifice tube as well. It is located in the small line at the bottom of the evaporator box below the r/d.