Tips on replacing AC compressor on 96 Wagon

[2k3windstar]

I'll be replacing the AC compressor on my father's 96 Roadmaster Wagon. It has the heavy duty cooling system, 5.7 liter engine. Looks like I'll have to remove the lower radiator hose and associated pipe, maybe remove the belt driven fan. Looking at AllData there are three bolts that hold it in place. Has anybody done this already, and have any tips? I'm figuring a quality day under the car. I've got jack stands and I'm not afraid of using them.

FYI: I've already flushed the system. The orifice was clogged with aluminum. I figured the compressor was about gone, but tried replacing the orifice only at first. That cooled good for about 2 weeks. Now the compressor barely develops any pressure.

Eric

[2k3windstar]

OK, looks like no one had any tips. My father and I were able to replace the compressor in one long day.

You need a lot of good penetrant oil.
Long extensions for your sockets.
If you have the heavy duty cooling system you will need deep well sockets for the bolts that hold the pipe that goes to the lower radiator hose.
I was able to remove the compressor without unbolting the engine mount and raising the engine. The back side of the compressor is bolted to a bracket with 10mm bolts. This bracket is the reason that you would have to raise the engine. I removed the the 10mm bolts from the back of the bracket, which allowed the compressor to slide out the front.

I'm not kidding about the penetrant oil and the long extensions.

Optional: A good LED headlamp with fresh batteries.

Because of all the trouble in replacing the compressor, be sure and get a good replacement unit. And do a thorough flush of the system. You do not want to repeat this job.

Eric