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Advice on my plan

IrnGynt on Wed March 23, 2011 9:14 AM User is offline

Year: 2003
Make: Honda
Model: Civic Hybrid
Engine Size: 1.3
Refrigerant Type: R134A

Problem: AC compressor (Sanden TRSA090) is making a helluva racket when on.

My plan: From researching, it seems it might be smart to replace all the AC components minus the lines. I plan on flushing the lines and adding the inline filter this site sells.

First question: Is it overkill to replace EVERYTHING? My compressor still works and the AC is still cold it just makes alot of noise so I'm assuming it's on its way to catastrophic failure. In light of that, I'm only running it when I have to (to defrost the windshield).

Second question: The service manual for my particular car recommends measured amounts of PAG for each component replaced. Do I add the recommended amount of PAG (using the DEC PAG this site sells) to the each new component or add the total amount to the compressor?

edit:

Third question: Is it better to put the inline filter between the condenser/dryer or between the dryer/TXV? For my car, after the dryer looks to be the easier location to put it. Before the dryer is kind of tight.

Edited: Wed March 23, 2011 at 10:27 AM by IrnGynt

robs on Wed March 23, 2011 12:21 PM User is offlineView users profile

To me, it does seems like your compressor is going out, but depending on how sick you are with the noise its making, I would run it till it's done blowing cold. As far as what components need to be replaced when a compressor has a catastrophic failure, the norm is to replace the compressor, condenser, drier, and expansion device. Flush out the lines and evaporator. As far as adding oil, we like to recommend adding 3/4 of the recommended oil amount into the compressor and the rest into the drier. The 134a will carry the oil and distribute it accordingly once the system is up and running. For the inline filters, they come with the different fittings so they can be applied anywhere desired, but to tell you the truth we don't really install that many here in the shop. If the system is done correctly, then you wont have to worry about debris getting everywhere. But to me it makes sense to install it in the discharge line (line going from the compressor to condenser) , to get all the debris from get to the condenser and clogging that up.

IrnGynt on Wed March 23, 2011 2:02 PM User is offline

Thanks for the info Rob!

My only concern (possibly unfounded) was that the compressor may seize up and throw the belt.

On my car, the expansion device is connected to the evaporator so I figured if I might as well replace both if I go through the trouble of getting to one.

It makes sense that the filter should be right after the compressor but, from what I understand, that is a vapor line and the filter needs to be on a liquid line.

robs on Wed March 23, 2011 2:28 PM User is offlineView users profile

Yes would make sense to replace the evap if you need to get it out to replace the expansion valve, I'm just informing you of what we do and it doesn't necessarily need to be replaced, it can be flushed, trying to save you some money. On the other hand, the filter is designed to be placed anywhere you desire like i said, whether it be the liquid line, discharge line or wherever, but debris will come from the compressor, so to me it makes scene to catch it right as its exiting the compressor to prevent further contamination. Your drier will not filter out major debris once the compressor is contaminating the system. I personally wouldn't install filter, if the job is done correctly the system should last quite a while and adding the filter only makes it more vulnerable for future leaks.

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