AC Compressor replacement

[tkswan]

1995 Seville STS Northstar. 120k miles excellent shape. Runs like new.

The AC compressor has sprung a leak. They tell me that the housing is cracked. The computer keeps warning that its shutting it off because of low freon level. Non Cadillac repair shop wants $1700 to replace the compressor. The part costs them about $400.

This is my Moms car. She drives it to church and wall mart. I need this fixed for the Texas summer but I don't want to put that much money in this car, but I don't mind putting in some time.

How difficult is it to replace the compressor in my garage (myself). Looks like a huge labor job.

I'm a pretty good wrench/shade tree mechanic. My plan is to hopefully, replace the compressor myself and then take it to have it charged professionally.

If it is fairly simple (take off the old and put on the new part) is it possible to get the written procedure to use as a guide? ...a snippet from the service manual maybe???

Thanks in advance for and help and/or suggestions.

[brcidd]

I've done a dozen or so of them-- Northstar engines are a PITA for compressor replacement- I actually rebuild the compressor - new shaft seal and new o-rings on those units- will fix them-- they do NOT crack-- I've dealt with warranty analysis on those HD-6s and cracking has not happened- unless you put a floor jack under it.

The compressor unbolts fine from the wheel well side- but the manifold bolt is done last- after you remove the rear head mounting bolt from the block- I highly suggest you remove the oil pressure sending unit and the oil filter to gain more room and to not chance breaking the sending unit....been there...done that....

Then pull the compressor forward at least an inch to get your 15 mm straight wrench (or very short socket) on the hose manifold bolt- This bolt alone takes me about 5 minutes to remove--so this is the hardest part...after that it is a cakewalk....

Have fun...

[tkswan]

great information! thank you. any special tools to disconnect the lines? I would still feel comfortable with the [written] procedure used in the caddilac maintenance garage. ill google it to see what i can find.

thanks

[brcidd]

What I told you was more than what the service manual will say-- it says....

Removal & Installation 1. Disconnect negative battery cable. Discharge A/C system using approved refrigerant recovery/recycling equipment. Disengage drive belt. Raise and support vehicle. Remove engine splash shields and retainer. Unplug electrical connections from compressor. 2. Remove compressor hose bolt. Remove compressor from mounting bracket. To install, reverse removal procedure. Evacuate and recharge A/C system.