Hello all,
I am finally getting to restoring the AC on my car now that it is running and driving. I am looking for some advice on my air conditioner compressor. I have a York compressor that I had planned to rebuild, but I only see seal kits available for rebuilding. I am concerned that rebuilding it will only replace the seals. What about the other mechanical components like rings and bearings? Are these components so robust that they don’t fail? Of corse I want to stay with the factory original appearance and only want to do this once with the prices of R12. What are others doing? Purchasing a new or rebuilt compressors or are you rebuilding an original?
Thanks,
John
I agree with Bob.
Now, with saying that, I also agree the compressors are, as you say, robust and only seals and gaskets "typically" are all that is needed.
I rebuilt mine, just seals and gaskets but when I went to torque the head bolts, discovered a few threads were pulled so I now have a beautiful "no warranty" compressor.
II re-threaded those holes (Heli-Coils) and filled the compressor with an R-134a compatible refrigerant oil and plan to fire up the system on 134a at first and once I have "no leaks" and a functioning system, I will change it over to the "better", "COLDER" R-12. TECH NOTE: R134a oil also works with R12, but not the other way around.
IF I have issues, I bought a 2nd compressor that I acquired a nice tag from. If my own has any issues, I will send the other extra compressor out to Classic, as Bob suggested.
(I may send the extra one out ANYWAYS and replace mine BEFOREHAND, since it is still out of the car and save me the hassle of changing it post assembly.)
Whatever I end up with, starting the system up on 134a has less risk of waisting any R12, should you find any other issues or leaks.
By the way, a new expansion valve, new high pressure hose and rebuilding your original dryer (Classic Auto is your source for these) is a MUST DO.
Also, make sure your condenser is in pristine condition. Do these things ALL AT ONE TIME with the compressor and you will more than likely have excellent results.