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Recommend info source for replacing compressor on 97 Cougar?

rgilliam2004 on Sun June 13, 2010 6:27 PM User is offlineView users profile

Year: 1997
Make: Mercury
Model: Cougar
Engine Size: V8
Refrigerant Type: R-134a
Ambient Temp: 0
Pressure Low: 0
Pressure High: 0
Country of Origin: United States

I need to replace the compressor on my 97 Cougar and could use a resource on the best procedure for doing this. I have been working on cars including adding referent to the system, for many years but have not actually opened a system and replaced parts for the AC system before.

I have been reading over the forum here and know that I should also replace the Accumulator and orifice tube and that I need to have a shop “drain” or empty the system prior to working on it.

What I am not sure of is the removal of the compressor itself and that process. If some has a good source, other than this site, like a manual, book, or site, etc. Please let me know. I just plan to replace the parts and then take it back to the shop and have them complete the flushing and filling.
I just have very basic tools for that and don't plan to purchase more for a one time job. In short, I want to do all the hard work.

The compressor did not lock up but the system has a leak for years and everything points to the compressor.

If someone has completed is on another 97 Cougar, I would like to hear from you also to understand any of the issues you ran into.

Thanks and nice site!
Ray

bohica2xo on Sun June 13, 2010 8:07 PM User is offline

That car is full of springlock connectors. At least one of them has developed a leak in 13 years. You should replace the seals in the couplings - most of them you will have apart anyway.

The orifice tube in that car is part of the high side line, and should be replaced - it is about 45 bucks, but there is no way to clean or inspect it and it is the primary system filter.

The condensor on that car is a 6mm Piccolo type, and does not flush easily. It will take a lot of air to get any flushing solvent back out. If the shop you are planning on using has good flushing equipment (and offers a warranty) great. Otherwise a new condensor is about 130 bucks.

Evaporators are usually protected from debris by the orifice tube. Removing the old oil can usually be done by flushing.

The accumulator obviously needs to be replaced.

Not a huge job, just take your time, and keep everything clean.

B.


-------------------------
"Among the many misdeeds of the British rule in India, history will look upon the act of depriving a whole nation of arms, as the blackest."
~ Mahatma Gandhi, Gandhi, An Autobiography, M. K. Gandhi, page 446.

rgilliam2004 on Fri June 18, 2010 11:50 PM User is offlineView users profile

Thanks for the insight!

Would these springlock connectors allow the dye from leak finder out? I ask because several tries have been made but no one has found the leak yet. That is why I am down to replacing the compressor itself.

Also any manuals that are good that I can purchase for doing this?

Edited: Fri June 18, 2010 at 11:55 PM by rgilliam2004

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