New Condensor in order but a question.

[warlock40]

I have been told I have a leak in the condensor.
Well ok I was told that about this time last summer.

I priced out a condensor rad and can get one locally for about 160cdn

But I was also told I should be looking at replacing the
receiver dryer as well. Not much more perhaps 40-50 at most
but I'm wondering if anyone knows why I would need to change this?

Thanks

[denisond3]

The receiver-dryer is what captures any water in the a.c. system, and installing a new one is usually much cheaper than not doing so. If you have had a leak in the condenser, its fairly likely that some water has been allowed into the system when driving during rains and in cold weather. This water will corrode the innards of the compressor and mix with the lube oil, creating an acidic result. The rest of your a.c. system will eventually have corrosion products in it. If your system has leaked down to zero pressure for any length of time, you might also need a rebuilt a.c. compressor, to have the system flushed and evacuated - then recharged. You can learn lots about auto a.c. systems by reading the forums and FAQ at www.ackits.com.

[warlock40]

I suppose your right.

I just want to spend the repair dollars wisely. Knowing what I know now.. I would have fixed it right away instead of waiting.

Thanks for the link.. lots of good information there.

[sierrap615]

replacing the compressor(more importantly the oil inside of if) and the fush are more preventive repair then anything. but the system will need vacuumed down by a shop. and install the dryer last and don't unpack it until your ready to put it in. otherwise it will absorb the moisture in the air.

[warlock40]

Thanks I wouldn't have thought of that.

SO basically when I'm ready to seal this up take it out and connect everything.

I suppose I should be ready to do the vacum and coolant at the same time??

[sierrap615]

the engine coolant and the A/C refrigerant are not related. you will need to drain the coolant because the radiator will need removed to access the condensor. refilling the coolant will be the last step. then when everything is together and roadworthy again, take it to a shop and they will evacuate(vacuum down) and refill the system, as a special machine is needed to pull the system down to the needed 28-29 inches of vaccum.