A/C Questions

[qu1cks1lver56]

OK, when we put the motor/tranny in my truck, the original A/C compressor was leaking so we just left it off. Now I've changed my setup up to a early 90's serp. setup and it's getting hot and I want A/C. I can find a compressor no problem, won't be cheap but whatever. But I was told since I left the hoses and stuff off, and didn't plug any holes up, that there's alot of dirt in there and that I can't just put a new compressor on and go. That I have to change out condenser, evaporator, and something else. I'm scared of that cuz it's lots of money and work, and A/C isn't worth that to me. Anyone know the truth to this? Can I just put a new compressor on?

[RandyP]

They are not fibbing, leaving the lines open like that most likely got enough debris inside your accumulator and condenser to make them unusable. You can try just replacing the accumulator and trying to blow out the condenser, but I think you'll end up with dirt in the line and hurting the system down the road. The compressor is going to be your major expense though, the condenser (new aftermarket from like Keystone or 1800RADIATOR) should only be like 150 or less, and accumulators are cheap.
If you do not pay to do it right up front, you'll pay to do it right again later. All it takes is a grain of debris inside the line to make for a hot day, and I promise it will wait until it is 140 degrees outside to lock up.

[qu1cks1lver56]

Ouch.
Guess I need to get to looking for a new condenser for cheap.