Installing a new compressor, need your thoughts.

[dagod16]

I have replace 3 air compressors in 15 years. They all seem to last 5 years and go dead. So this time I have done a little research.

The Desno brand seems to be a very good quality compressor from what I have been reading. Fits the jeep and I can get a new one for $209.

After I replace the compressor I am going to just drive down to the shop down the street, without using the AC for that short drive..... and have them suck, fill and add ac dye to the mix and get everything running.

What else should I replace? My mechanic down the street said nothing else needs to be replaced but I want your thoughts!

Thanks guys and gals.

[XJ Wheeler]

I'm not a ac pro or anything but I definitely recommend replacing the dryer, aka accumulator. It has a desiccant material inside that gets spoiled if left open to outside air for long. Just a general rule, replace it anytime the system is unsealed (opened).

Most compressor manufacturers also require you to replace it when the compressor is replaced, otherwise it voids the warranty.

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[dagod16]

Ok I will replace that as well.

[blazer2]

The brand of pag oil that goes in it as well.
Yes they are not all created the same.
Give me an hour or two ill post the name

[blazer2]

I'm an idiot it was the viscosity I was thanking of not the brand.
Like 46 is used for front and rear ac units.

[4.3LXJ]

It is really important to match oil to the type of refrigerant used. R12 and 134A take different oils

[dagod16]

So I sent the place I am buying the compressor from and asked them this question. The compressor has oil all premeasured and ready to go. I don need to do anything but bolt it down and get it filled.

[4.3LXJ]

That is usually the case. But make sure it is the right oil

[dagod16]

How do I make sure, maybe ask the compressor seller?

[blazer2]

The guy/girl doing the install should have the info.
If you are doing the install. I would go to Napa
And ask and buy it from them. If no Napa go to O'Reilys
They seem to know what they are doing over the other places.
But that's my $32.02

[dagod16]

Wouldn't the oil be pretty standard since the coolant is standard?

[msmoorenburg]

Wouldn't the oil be pretty standard since the coolant is standard?

nope look for a blue tag on the radiator cowling or hood.

it could be

ester
pag
pag 46
pag 100

and you will need to add some oil to the filter dryer. do you know what failed in the last 3 compressors?

[blazer2]

When i did one on my zr2 I had to get the pag oil.

[dagod16]

I think I have the correct compressor picked out.

What about the dryer/accumulator? Does it matter which brand I buy?
Thanks.

[4.3LXJ]

No, any will work

[dagod16]

IF it says top quality is that better than another brand? Does it have better materials or stuff inside?

[4.3LXJ]

I don't know. Really, just look at price. It is is too cheap, it probably is

[XJ Wheeler]

I've had a "Four Seasons" brand dryer in mine from Rock Auto for about a year now and no issues.

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[dagod16]

Brand New Top Quality A C AC Accumulator Drier for Dodge Jeep | eBay

[URL="http://www.ebay.com/itm/New-AC-A-C-Accumulator-Drier-Fits-Jeep-1999-2006-TJ-Wrangler-L4-V6-/111625598034?fits=Year%3A2001|Make%3AJeep|Model%3A Cherokee|Submodel%3ALimited|Engine+-+Liter_Display%3A4.0L&hash=item19fd677452:g:Wl8AAOSwKtVW0ixg&vxp=mtr"]

These are both ebay links.

[4.3LXJ]

That is not the accumulator you want. Yours has a bracket to bolt to the frame and a place to attach the low pressure safety switch

[dagod16]

I went to autozone and bouht the correct one. It was $36 and it was a four season brand.

So what about the oriface tube. Should I replace that? It may have never been replaced.

[4.3LXJ]

If it is not plugged up, leave it alone

[XJ Wheeler]

^I agree.

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[dagod16]

I have no idea if it is plugged. The filter is built into the tube. $26 for a new tube with filter built inside? Why not just change it out?

Thanks
Rob

[4.3LXJ]

If you wish

[dagod16]

My only concern is that it may have never ever been changed. Does this get changed normally when a compressor gets changed. So maybe in the past it was changed with the old compressors but I doubt it.

[4.3LXJ]

That would depend on the type of failure. If it was just seals and o rings that failed, then no. But if there was metal involved, then yes

[dagod16]

The compressor is what failed.

[4.3LXJ]

As in froze up?

[dagod16]

Ummm not sure. The relief valve on the back was leaking and finally it stopped working. I took it in and the compressor is no longer working.

[4.3LXJ]

I don't think you need to worry about the oriface

[dagod16]

How does that tube/filter get clogged?

[4.3LXJ]

Mechanical failure and detonation