A/C Compressor

I have a 1998 Lumina LTZ 3.8L (103,000 miles) and need to replace an A/C compressor and related parts like the orifice tube and receiver/dryer. Mechanic quote of $395 for a remanugactured 4 Seasons compressor seems high. Any ideas on how I can save money on this job? At this point, I can wait until Spring

Thanks,
Mark

That the whole job, or just the part? It would suck to have to do the job over because corners were cut. We would take in a lot of compressors at the parts store that were returned as defect, only to have it denied because it failed due to debris in the system that wasn't properly cleaned out. Is the a shop that specializes in A/C work, or a regular shop? A specialist will do better work, and sometimes charge less labor, as they know the job inside and out. My family has a dash/gauge/A/C/heater specialized shop since the 30's, these guys know their stuff!! And their labor rate is lower than most shops.

Getting it done in the off-season will make the job a little cheaper I think, too. I wouldn't wait 'till spring.

Thanks for feedback

Just looked up the quote: About $ 833 total job

Reman Four Seasons Compressor $454
Receiver/Drier $ 73.00
Relay $ 27.00
Orifice Tube $ 6.00
Dye solution to check for leaks $ 25.00
Labor $182.00

The compressor is working, but apparently is not putting out enough pressure so refrigerant is not circulating. Compressor does click on and stay on, but air is warm. Used to be very cold. I guess I'll bring it off-season to take advantage of lower prices/better inventory

My cost on Four Seasons Compressor-$229

That's a pretty big mark-up.

Might wanna shop around.

Are we sure it isn't just needing a charge?

Check the temp of the lines to and from the core where they go into the firewall with the A/C set on max. Any temp difference? One should be cool, one warm. Generally, if the compressor is worn enough to not pump well, it's pretty noisy. just seems odd to me. But I'm not looking at it, either.

I agree with Jeff, if the compressor is bad enough to not make pressure, it will be clattering and noisy. I would try buying a recharge kit from Auto-zone or Advance, and try charging it yourself. It's very easy to do, just follow the directions in the kit. the kits cost around $35, and I would say it's worth the $35 chance even if it doesn't fix it.

will give it a shot, thanks gentlemen...

I can't seem to locate an A/C Specialist. Every one I speak to services them but there are no "specialists" that I can locate.

If there is some industry directory that would list them, please let me know. I'm in NYC near the New Jersey border. Thanks