Air Conditionig Repair--where to start? - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

iufan71 · 07-04-2003, 12:43 AM

Ok,i have a 78 GMC,and it has Air on it,but its not working right now. Where do i start and what do i look for as far as figuring out what works and what my problems are? I know one of the a/c hoses has duct tape on it,so im almost positive it has a hole in it and needs to be replaced. Since there is only 3 a/c lines that i see,i thought of just replaceing those to start with. I have a 350 with auto. tranny. Any help is appreciatted.

Joe Rae · 07-04-2003, 02:40 AM

Yes, replace hoses and condenser, have it evacuated, charged, and see if it holds charge. Condenser needs replacing due to excess moisture from leaks. I spent around 200.00 on hoses, condenser, charging, etc. My compressor is working fine.

apstguy · 07-04-2003, 06:05 AM

If you are staying with R-12, then do as Joe said above. You will probably need a new compressor. If you are going to switch to R-134a then you will need all of the above plus a new orifice tube, high pressure cutoff, a really good flush. Don't forget to get new o-rings!

iufan71 · 07-04-2003, 09:42 AM

Wouldnt you have to convert to the newer freon anyways,since no one will mess with the old stuff?

Joe Rae · 07-04-2003, 12:57 PM

I chose not to convert due to having a supply of R12 available. Once I run out, I'll be forced to, or check classified ads. As far as servicing? I've never had a problem... One thing I've received from LMC that was good quality/price was their replacement hoses. When my compressor goes, I'll switch. apstguy makes good point, probably right time for you to switch over $ permitting.

DrMaserati · 07-04-2003, 02:45 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Joe Rae
Condenser needs replacing due to excess moisture from leaks.

There should be no need to replace the condenser. It is not affected by moisture and doesn't retain any, but should be flushed. Are you sure you didn't mean to say the accumulator or receiver/drier? That unit should definitely be replaced for that reason.

JP

Joe Rae · 07-04-2003, 06:54 PM

Yes accumulator, thanks!

07-04-2003, 12:43 AM	#1
iufan71 Registered User Join Date: Apr 2003 Location: Indianapolis,IN Posts: 138	Air Conditionig Repair--where to start? Ok,i have a 78 GMC,and it has Air on it,but its not working right now. Where do i start and what do i look for as far as figuring out what works and what my problems are? I know one of the a/c hoses has duct tape on it,so im almost positive it has a hole in it and needs to be replaced. Since there is only 3 a/c lines that i see,i thought of just replaceing those to start with. I have a 350 with auto. tranny. Any help is appreciatted.

07-04-2003, 06:05 AM	#3
apstguy LED King Join Date: Jan 2003 Location: Sacramento, CA Posts: 2,087	If you are staying with R-12, then do as Joe said above. You will probably need a new compressor. If you are going to switch to R-134a then you will need all of the above plus a new orifice tube, high pressure cutoff, a really good flush. Don't forget to get new o-rings! __________________ Tyler 1985 C10 305 w/ Bowtie OD TH700R4 3.42 LSD 202,000 miles 2006 Ford Focus ZX3 5-speed Stick 2016 Chevy Spark EV Gone: 2002.5 VW GTI 24v VR6 Gone: 2008 VW R32

07-04-2003, 09:42 AM	#4
iufan71 Registered User Join Date: Apr 2003 Location: Indianapolis,IN Posts: 138	A/c problems Wouldnt you have to convert to the newer freon anyways,since no one will mess with the old stuff?

07-04-2003, 02:40 AM	#2
Joe Rae Registered User Join Date: May 2003 Posts: 50	Yes, replace hoses and condenser, have it evacuated, charged, and see if it holds charge. Condenser needs replacing due to excess moisture from leaks. I spent around 200.00 on hoses, condenser, charging, etc. My compressor is working fine.

07-04-2003, 12:57 PM	#5
Joe Rae Registered User Join Date: May 2003 Posts: 50	I chose not to convert due to having a supply of R12 available. Once I run out, I'll be forced to, or check classified ads. As far as servicing? I've never had a problem... One thing I've received from LMC that was good quality/price was their replacement hoses. When my compressor goes, I'll switch. apstguy makes good point, probably right time for you to switch over $ permitting.

07-04-2003, 06:54 PM	#7
Joe Rae Registered User Join Date: May 2003 Posts: 50	Yes accumulator, thanks!



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