360GLT-AC compressor replacement by novice?? possible?

[MB1]

Hi guys

I'm in AUS with an 87 360GLT. The AC has been converted to R134A (before I bought it, so the conversion was done around 2 years ago i'd say).

I left the system with no pressure (gas low) for approximately 5 months , subsequently took it to get regassed, and was told the compressor seals are finished and asked to pay approx $AUD 1500 (£700) for a fix.

I ran home with my car to think it over and here I am.

I am not a novice mechanic, however, where I am living atm I have no tools and no money to buy them (all I have is a socket set).

Anyone with the experience willing to comment on the chances of my replacing the compressor myself?

Is there any requirements along the lines of system pressurisation that will make it impossible for me to do this in the driveway? I can do this myself if, say, it is like swapping an alternator.

Also, any tips on a replacement compressor make/model?

mb

[petefarrell360]

The man in the know about the AC system is Pettaw, aka Andy, he'll be able to answer most questions as he has rebuilt his AC kit to run on R134A. I can comment as yet, but I'm planning on replacing all the pipework and seals to rebuild my AC and convert it to run on R134A at the same time.

Pete

[trabitom99]

Thanks so much for posting this, I was about to ask a similar question myself soon as I'm on the look out for the "right" R134a compressor for a 360 myself!

Just a couple of sentences which may be a bit off the mark, but may help until someone answers who knows more about A/C than I do:

The original Sanden SD-510 unit (designed for the ozone-unfriendly R12 gas) came in dozens of different varieties, as do the replacement R134a models, which (I think) are the SD-5H14 ones. Most are variations on the same theme, the main differences being hose connections and the length of the compressor clutch.

The most important thing is the clutch length to ensure the belt alignment is correct. From memory, to find this out you need to measure the difference from the compressor mount nearest the clutch to the clutch pully.

I've described that really badly, so here's a pic of a compressor measurement to illustrate what I mean - the 2.42" as shown on the pic:

(just some random one, NOT one from a 360!)


More infos here:

http://www.meicorporation.com/pdfs/Sanden07.pdf (PDF)
http://www.rparts.com/Catalog/Major_Com ... _guide.htm

If you get your tape measure out, the PDF should help in finding the right compressor type to replace yours. And if you posted the results here, I'd be really grateful

Tom

[MB1]

OK thanks, but my system has already been converted to R134A I just made the mistake of leaving it dry for too long and now the seals are all dry and the compressor, apparently (I didn't see it) leaks when they start to fill the system back up.

I am getting the feeling that I should just get someone else to do it. To be honest I have zero patience for this shit. If it isnt as easy as changing a sparkplug I will either break it or take months to complete it.

[trabitom99]

If you managed to have a look at the compressor to get the part number then you'd know which compressor type to look out for. I'm sure there are plenty of wreckers who could supply you with a replacement part!

Otherwise I could scan relevant sections of the A/C green book for you which show how to take the compressor apart. That'd be harder than changing a spark plug though

To regas you need specialist equipment. If you do get it done, make sure they replace the filter / drier, it's a service item ...

Tom

[baz]

the sanden compressor is avery common unit likely could be found in many wreckers yards
the trick may be to get your one rebuilt with uprated seals etc as your original pump was designed for the older style gasThe unit is very easy to remove as i've just finished stripping the aircon from my parts car
once you have it removed you will at least be able to rebuild/match it with a later second hand unit

[MB1]

OK so I have a quote for install a seocnd hand compressor out of a wrecker car (pressure tested etc.) fully gassed and all, for 350 pounds with 3 months warranty.

Does this sound fair?