Compressor HVAC: Service and Repair

1. If the compressor still works, run the engine at idle for a few minutes with the A/C ON, then shut the engine off and disconnect the negative cable from the battery.
2. Use a refrigerant recovery system to discharge the refrigerant from the system.





3. Disconnect the compressor connector.
4. Raise the car on a hoist. Make sure it's properly sup- ported.





5. Disconnect the suction and discharge hoses from the compressor. Cap the open fitting immediately to keep moisture and dirt out of the system.





6. Loosen the idler pulley center nut and adjusting bolt, then remove the belt from compressor.
7. Support the front of the car on safety stands and remove the engine splash shield.





8. Remove the four compressor mounting belts and the compressor.





9. If necessary remove the idler pulley.





Check the idler pulley bearing for play and drag. Replace it with a new one if it's noisy or has excessive play or drag.

10. Install the compressor in the reverse order of removal. If you're installing a new compressor, drain all the refrigerant oil out of the old compressor and measure its volume.
11. Subtract the volume of old oil from 100 cc (3 fl oz); the result is the amount of oil you should drain from the new compressor (through the suction fitting).
12. Adjust the compressor belt. After adjusting the belt, tighten the pulley center nut. Torque to 45 Nm (36 lb-ft) Then tighten the adjusting bolt securely.
13. Charge the system. Test system performance.