New or rebuild dash AC?

[Astrodokk]

Just got my baby smogged...failed first time due to too rich, but they adjusted the Edelbrock 4 barrel and it passed the second time. However, as they were running the engine, an awful noise was coming out of the front of the moho and the doghouse. The mechanic said it was the condenser clutch bearings starting to go. If it failed while driving, the belt would rip off but it would not affect anything else. Should I have it rebuilt or are there replacements for this type of thing?

[bkahler]

Originally Posted by Astrodokk

Just got my baby smogged...failed first time due to too rich, but they adjusted the Edelbrock 4 barrel and it passed the second time. However, as they were running the engine, an awful noise was coming out of the front of the moho and the doghouse. The mechanic said it was the condenser clutch bearings starting to go. If it failed while driving, the belt would rip off but it would not affect anything else. Should I have it rebuilt or are there replacements for this type of thing?

My wife had the same diagnosis on a 93 Cadillac that she just picked up. The mechanic said the compressor clutch bearings and the idler pulley bearings were shot. Cost is going to be around $225 to fix (parts and labor). That is about what you would pay for a new A/C compressor with clutch not including labor.

I'd say get the bearings replaced. That way they don't have to break into the A/C freon lines and you don't have to pay for the freon work.

Just my $0.02

Brad

[ranchmink]

Good point,
I agree that changing the clutch and bearing make sense. If you lived in California they would require you to recover the refrigerant and if you can get the R12 or whatever you have in will most likely pay a premium for the clone or replacement refrigerant.

I just changed my entire system to R134 with a sandon compressor. It works well with a new complete AC system.

The only down side is new compressors are more efficient except R134 is used mostly but your hoses and seals would have to be changed. Keep it simple...........

[vswingfield]

Originally Posted by ranchmink

Good point,
I agree that changing the clutch and bearing make sense. If you lived in California they would require you to recover the refrigerant and if you can get the R12 or whatever you have in will most likely pay a premium for the clone or replacement refrigerant.

I just changed my entire system to R134 with a sandon compressor. It works well with a new complete AC system.

The only down side is new compressors are more efficient except R134 is used mostly but your hoses and seals would have to be changed. Keep it simple...........

Now days, you are required to recover R12 no matter where you live in the US. I converted my old 84 Audi to R134 a few years ago, and only changed the seals I disturbed in the process. My theory was that the old stuff had hardened already and were not as vulnerable as fresh o rings. This lasted the rest of the life of the Audi, another 3 years and worked fine. I did have to purchase a set of R134 gauges, though. My vote is “Don’t fix it if it ain’t broke!” Just replace the clutch and enjoy the R12.

Vaughan

[Astrodokk]

Apparently, the PO had the AC replaced with the newer stuff already. It never has worked well through the dash, so I hardly ever turned it on. The bearings never did fail, but now that I'm restoring her, they'll get done. It's very hot here in N. California today!

[ranchmink]

Now that I have had a season on the system, I am happy with the results. The only issue is with the size the RV you can only expect to the front seat area comfortable. We normally run the coach unit when we are traveling normally which puts out more cool air and sometime augment with the dash unit.

[ScrapIrony-2]

Originally Posted by ranchmink

Now that I have had a season on the system, I am happy with the results. The only issue is with the size the RV you can only expect to the front seat area comfortable. We normally run the coach unit when we are traveling normally which puts out more cool air and sometime augment with the dash unit.

We put a spring loaded curtain rod across the unit, just behind the front seats, and hung a clear shower curtain from it...the dash ac keeps the 'compartment' cool. It helps block off the front when we're stopped and running the roof ac. Come winter time it works as well for the heat. May not look elegant, but I choose comfort over aesthetics.
mike

[jking]

Originally Posted by Astrodokk

Apparently, the PO had the AC replaced with the newer stuff already. It never has worked well through the dash, so I hardly ever turned it on. The bearings never did fail, but now that I'm restoring her, they'll get done. It's very hot here in N. California today!

We took the whole system out - reduces weight on the front end (which is overloaded in almost all Classics) and simplifies cooling airflow. When A/C is needed, start your generator and run the roof air(s).

just my $0.02.
-Jamie