$845 to fix a/c drain leak !!!!!

[xraybob]

Ouch. I just called my local Jeep service center and was told that on my 1998 Grand Cherokee the $11 seal to the a/c drain has failed and to replace it would require removal of the entire dash, evap unit under the dash to get to the bad seal. At $835 in labor for a total of $845 (plus tax). Is there any other way to get it or just trade it? I had planned on keeping it another 8 to 12 months, but here in Florida, a/c is a necessity.

Thanks.

[Bob D.]

How do they know it's the seal? A more common problem is a clogged a/c drain. Even if it is the seal you can fix it with sealant without removing the dash. If there is not water draining from under the vehicle and on to the ground when the a/c is running then the drain is probably blocked.
Since in your other post you said there wasn't a hole already drilled in the drain you can do it yourself for a couple dollars -- here are step by directions that will save you $845 bucks:

http://www.aircondition.com/tech/questions/4/


Here are some success stories with details:
http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbul...ir+conditioner

[Goldfishy]

Another option is to take it to a A/C specialist shop and don't tell them what you got from the dealership and see what they come up with. You might also want to mention what Bob said to them...."my friend of mine says maybe it's the blah, blah..."

Good luck, keep us posted...

[xraybob]

I did drill the hole in the center of the drain case and blew high pressure air with no clog noted. I then dug around the backside of the case, removed as much of the seal to the firewall as I could and packed silicone sealant all the way around, let it cure for 24 hrs and fired up the a/c. All stayed nice and dry inside the car and the drain water now drips onto the ground as it should. I hope this helps others. Oh by the way, I had to remove the center console, both front seats and the entire carpet to get it to dry out. Now all is well.

Thanks for looking guys.

[Bob D.]

Good deal, and thanks for following up, so many times folks never report back.