a/c compressor

[robyn]

Hi all! did anyone ever replace their own a/c compressor? is it a do-it-at-home job or should it be left for the mechanic
thanks for the input! one more question, when i put the vent on and put the dial to the cold setting, the air is so hot it feels like the heat is on, is this just because the engine is hot and it's about 99 degrees here? i appreciate the help!

[JetPuf]

if all you're getting is hot air, it's possible that the cable connecting the temperature knob has become disconnected from the flap inside the HVAC unit under the dash.

[05yellowbeetle]

Yes, my dad and I replaced mine, but he had experience doing several others. Plus you need a vacuum pump to pull all the air out of the lines so that you can put the freon in.

So my answer would be, if you or a friend/family member/etc have experience in that sort of thing yes. Otherwise, its not an easy or fun thing to do.

Been there, done that, first time AC compressor, dryer, expansion valve... 2nd time evaporator coil (it is behind the dash, you have to dismantle almost the entire dash, NOT fun)

[Lmhansen]

I paid over $1,000 to have mine replaced (parts and labor). Considering the heat over the past few days, it was money well spent

[robyn]

wow, thanks for the info, i'll have my hubby check on that cable and if its not that, well, we'll be toasty! thanks again, stay cool...

[Yurko]

I did my heater core, which is only slightly less work. it's a gigantic, evil, bitch of a job to get all the crap out that you need out.

unless you have HVAC equipment (as mentioned above), it's not a good idea. Especially if you vent any freon into the atmosphere and someone turns you in to the EPA, as it carries like a $50k fine.

If you're out of freon, you could do the install and such yourself, and then take it somewhere for a recharge.

personally I would just bite the bullet rather than mess around with heater or A/C related repairs again, aside from messing around with the controls.

[kjclow]

I was just quoted $925 at Tuffy's in Charlotte. They said the copmpressor was shot and with it blowing both hot and really hot air, I guess that I have to believe them. Something I really won't consider doing myself.