Air Conditioner Woes

[farmerfelts]

First off, I tried search to no avail. Does anyone know where the expansion valve in the air conditioning system on a 1996 Tracker is located? Secondly, does anyone have or know where to obtain a condenser fan for the same model? I've tried every parts house around and it seems unobtainable. Located one at a wrecking yard but I had them test it before I bought it and it shot craps. AAAAAARRRRRRRGGGGG.

[coopdavillage]

im not sure where its located i would have to look but have you tried eBay for the fan? i have found many parts on there including whole AC systems (which i will need to replace my system....)
hope this helps

[farmerfelts]

Thanks coopdavillage for the reply. After striking out on a new or even used fan, I decided WTH and removed it from the car, disassmebled, lubricated and reinstalled the original fan and voila, it now works top notch.

However, as far as the expansion valve location, well, seems its located under the dash where the blower motor is and requires removing the entire dash to get to it. Even if I was mechanically capable of doing it myself, the valve costs $200.00 and may not even be the cure to the problem. I have a best/worst case estimate from a mechanic of from $300.00 to $1000.00 depending on how many components need to be replaced. No wonder you see so many Trackers with the windows down or the top off during the middle of the summer. If I keep the refrigerant topped off, the A/C is somewhat acceptable as is but doesn't work too well in stop and go traffic.

Sorry for the above ramble.

[coopdavillage]

oh trust me i know... mine system has about 5 problems with it and to fix it would cost 2k+ new so i just drive it with the windows down or top off but at least its got good air flow!