ac compressor replacement

Ok! So now that I replaced the LIM gaskets and the UIM and everything is great I want to replace my AC compressor because the freon leaks out from behind the pulley. I guess the seals are bad. The car has over 100,000 miles on it so I just bought a new Delphi compressor instead of attempting to fix this old compressor. My question is where is the orifice tube located and do I have to replace it since the old compressor didnt seize up? I figure since the compressor actually still works that there shouldnt be much debris in the orifice tube.Thanks and if there is anyone who has done this job that can give me some tips I greatly appreciate it!

Have the system evacuated, then the orifice tube is under the brake booster area (If I remember right). Then make sure you have a vacuum pulled on the system before it is recharged to evaporate all the moisture in the lines.

the orifice tube is under the brake booster area (If I remember right).

Correct Tim and a PITA to get to for inspection or replacement.

Thanks. Since the freon has leaked out do I still need to evacuate the system? I have a way to pull vacuum on the system after the new compressor is installed but I dont have a recovery system to evacuate the system. Also do I have to replace the orifice tube since its difficult to get to?

I would still evacuate it. There still may be refrigerant under pressure in it. Just bring it to a shop and tell them they can have the R134a if they evacuate it for you. Then when you get the work done, bring it back to the same shop and tell them to pull a vacuum and recharge.

If the compressor isn't hammering or grinding, your orrifice should be in decent shape, but it is your call.

The compressor actually works fine. If I fill the system with freon it works great but leaks out in about 1 week. I noticed the oily residue all around the area of the compressor and on the frame and splash guards a few days after I fill the system with freon so thats how I discovered the compressor was the leak point. I will evaluate the task of replacing the orifice tube when I do the compressor job.Thanks for the tips!

Sounds good. I am not sure there is really going to be an easy way to get it out other than removing the air box and ductwork.

Just make sure you install new o-rings on everything (orifice and compressor) when you put it back together. They have to match perfectly and be made specifically for AC/Refrigerant. Lubricate them with mineral spirits before installing (or PAG oil, but PAG oil is a carcinigen keep in mind).

Also when you get the old compressor out. Dump the PAG oil out of it and measuer how much came out. You will want to refill this same amount into the new compressor when it goes in.

Does anyone know how much pag oil is needed in a new compressor? I removed the old compressor but I guess since the shaft seal was leaking no oil came out of the old one. I bought an 8oz container of pag 150( i hope its the right kind). Do I put the full 8oz can into the compressor?

Does anyone know how much pag oil is needed in a new compressor?

Don't know the year of your car, but...

http://www.automotiveforums.com/t600994-97_grand_prix_a_c_compressor_oil__.html