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Necoa #: 11930
Location: 14(AR,LA,MS)
Joined: Jun 15, 2008
Posts: 10
Year: 1985
Model: El Camino
Posted: Wed Jul 02, 2008 9:48 pm Post subject: Compressor Help Needed (pics)
I really need to get the AC working in my new elky since its 100 degrees where i live. I believe the compressor is shot because its leaking freon all over the place. My question is what all do I need to do to replace the compressor? Is this something I can do in my garage or do I need to take it to a AC shop? Also what all parts do I need to do a proper job aka compressor, orifice tube, accumulator etc...
Necoa #: 10070
Location: 5(NC,SC)
Joined: Aug 29, 2007
Posts: 103
Year: 1981
Model: El Camino
Posted: Wed Jul 02, 2008 10:52 pm Post subject:
With some basic A/C stuff, yes it can be done at home.
Suggested Parts:
Compressor
Accumulator
Orifice tube
O-Ring Seal kit
Refridg. Oil (Mineral with R12 and PAG150 with R134A) 6oz
A/C flush
Freon (about 56oz)
A/C dye
Suggested Tools: (other than basic hand tools to remove and replace components)
Flush Gun
Spanner Wrench (to rotate the compressor)
A Vacuum Pump (to remove air and moisture from the system)
A set of A/C gauges
I sell this stuff, if you are interested, PM me. I can walk you through the procedure if you're not familiar with A/C. These systems are not very complicated at all compared to some of the later models out there.
For the 2 designs, verify the one that you need with the distributor. I "think" the difference is in the way the hose manifold mounts. Different seal types IIRC.
Stay FAR away from the Four Seasons compressors. Go with one of the Delphi units. Reman R-4 compressors are a crap shoot even from a "good" rebuilder. The FS R-4 remans have a dismal track record. _________________ Oh, you drive a Hummer? That's a cute little truck. My ride is an EMD E-8A. Wanna play chicken? www.lakeshorerailway.org
Necoa #: 5
Location: San Antonio, Texas, after living in Hawaii for 31 years.
Joined: Apr 12, 2003
Posts: 612
Posted: Mon Jul 07, 2008 7:34 pm Post subject:
I hate to say it but the first thing I would do is give the engine compartment a good cleaning. Much easier to work on that way. _________________ mygallary
Necoa #: 10070
Location: 5(NC,SC)
Joined: Aug 29, 2007
Posts: 103
Year: 1981
Model: El Camino
Posted: Mon Jul 07, 2008 10:35 pm Post subject:
Most of the original "O-ring" sealed compressors (where the manifold assy bolts to the back)have been replaced with the sealing washer type. This is not a big deal at all. No other changes. DO NOT put a reman compressor on it. It doesn't matter who built it. As far a a "New" on goes, there is ONLY one builder of them here in the States. If you get a 4 Seasons, Delphi, Ac Delco they are all essentially APCO's products as APCO bought the rights to them from GM some time back....beware of Chinese stuff...that's another story. I sell this stuff all day long, it can be interesting, I can tell you that.
Necoa #: 11930
Location: 14(AR,LA,MS)
Joined: Jun 15, 2008
Posts: 10
Year: 1985
Model: El Camino
Posted: Mon Jul 07, 2008 10:54 pm Post subject:
rhimmel wrote:
Most of the original "O-ring" sealed compressors (where the manifold assy bolts to the back)have been replaced with the sealing washer type. This is not a big deal at all. No other changes. DO NOT put a reman compressor on it. It doesn't matter who built it. As far a a "New" on goes, there is ONLY one builder of them here in the States. If you get a 4 Seasons, Delphi, Ac Delco they are all essentially APCO's products as APCO bought the rights to them from GM some time back....beware of Chinese stuff...that's another story. I sell this stuff all day long, it can be interesting, I can tell you that.
-Rob
So it doesnt really matter which "type" I get of the above. As long as it NEW I should be o.k. If they're all made by the same manuf. I may just go to my local O'Reallys and get whatever they have cheap. Unless thats a bad idesa. _________________ 85 Conquista SS
Necoa #: 10070
Location: 5(NC,SC)
Joined: Aug 29, 2007
Posts: 103
Year: 1981
Model: El Camino
Posted: Tue Jul 08, 2008 9:45 pm Post subject:
Just look out for the Chinese stuff...they are becoming more and more popular.
As far as the type: look to see if your original hose assy is stepped or not. Then use the correct sealing washers to make it even, does that make sense? Usually the Delphi's or AC Delco's come with the sealing washers usually needed. The thickness of them is determined obviously by thickness, but also by color...red. green, yellow, black or silver. I think thats all of them. I'll shoot you a PM with my contact info should you like to call me.
Necoa #: 5127
Location: 11(IA,NE,ND,SD)
Joined: Mar 28, 2005
Posts: 150
Year: 1980
Model: El Camino
Posted: Mon Jul 21, 2008 1:23 pm Post subject:
Great info is only a click away. For years now, EC has been THE source for accurate, honest answers!
My AC compressor has a slow leak now. I filled it 3 years ago, and I can tell it's not up to standard this year. My thoughts were to refill it, but with the enviromental issues, replacing it may be the thing to do. I have given my RN the best of care for over 26 years. Kept it all original. Sadly, this may be necessary unless I just keep the windows down on the hot days.
MANY thanks to all who share the El Camino spirit !! _________________ BE HAPPY, BE HEALTHY
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