A/C Compressor/Condenser Repair Question

My AC compressor seized up on me the other day, so I ordered a new compressor, orfice tube, and accumulator. Is it absolutely necessary to replace the condenser as well? I'd just hate to dish out another $160 if I dont have to.

thanks

Also, the GM service manual says that I need a dual O-ring joint separater to loosen any fittings, but from the diagram it looks like I could just use a wrench... anyone have any experience with this?

Many times a seized compressor releases all kinds of crud into the a/c system. Take out the orifice tube. If it is full of crud then yes, I'd recommend putting a new condenser in. The tubes in the condenser are so small that lots of crud is probably in there too. If the orifice tube is fairly clean, then not much crud may have gone into the system. Ultimately, I'd recommend a new condenser and flushing many times with a solvent(I used mineral spirits...much cheaper than a/c flush). If money is that big of a problem, you may vary well be able to get away without one if the inside of the condenser isn't too bad.

Also, wrenches work fine. you just need some big ones!! I'd also recommend buying a seal kit for the system in case any O-rings break or are very stretched out. It's only like $5 or something.

How are you evacuating the system and recharging? Do you have a vacuum pump or taking it somewhere?

Good luck!!! It's a PITA, but can be done.

Ok, so if there's no crud I'm gonna try to use the old condenser. What do you use to push the mineral spirits through the system? I dont have compressed air or anything, is there another way?

Oh, and I did get the O-Ring kit so thats not a prob. A guy I work with is going to lend me a vacuum pump for evacuating, and I'm gonna use one of those refill kits from wally world to charge it back up.

I'm sure it'll be a PITA, but it's still better than the $1200 I was quoted to get it done at the shop ;)