Compressor HVAC: Service and Repair

1. If the compressor is marginally operable, run the engine at idle speed, and let the air conditioner work for a few minutes, then shut the engine off.
2. Make sure you have the anti-theft code for the radio, then write down the frequencies for the radio's preset buttons.
3. Disconnect the negative cable from the battery.
4. Recover the refrigerant with a recovery/recycling/charging station.




5. Loosen the A/C compressor belt.




6. Remove the nuts, then disconnect the suction line and the discharge line from the compressor.

NOTE: Plug or cap the lines immediately after disconnecting them to avoid moisture and dust contamination.




7. Remove the mounting bolts and the compressor.




8. Remove the bolts and the suction service valve from the compressor.




9. Remove the mounting bolts and the idler pulley.




10. 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.

11. Install in the reverse order of removal. Make note of the following items.
- If you're installing a new compressor, drain all the refrigerant oil from the removed compressor, and measure its volume. Subtract the volume of drained oil from 140 ml (4 2/3 fl-oz, 4.9 lmp-oz); the result is the amount of oil you should drain from the new compressor (through the suction fitting).
- Replace the O-rings with new ones at each fitting, and apply a thin coat of refrigerant oil before installing them.

NOTE: Be sure to use the right O-rings for HFC-134a (R-134a) to avoid leakage.

- Use refrigerant oil (ND-OIL 8) for R-134a DENSO piston type compressors only.
- To avoid contamination, do not return the oil to the container once dispensed, and never mix it with other refrigerant oils.
- Immediately after using the oil, reinstall the cap on the container, and seal it to avoid moisture absorption.
- Do not spill the refrigerant oil on the vehicle; it may damage the paint; if the refrigerant oil contacts the paint, wash it off immediately.
- Adjust the A/C compressor belt.
- Charge the system, and test its performance.
- The PCM memory must be reset after reconnecting the battery.
- Enter the anti-theft code for the radio, then enter the customer's radio station presets.