Firm84

The stock AC system in my 85 T/A (LG4) has been, surprisingly, blowing cold for years even though the compressor has been loud when it's on (sounds like a bad bearing) for at least 4-5 years. I figured it was going to go, so I grabbed a used compressor off someone who was parting out a really low mileage car (rear ended) off my local Craigslist about 4 years ago and figured I'd install it when my compressor finally gave out. Well, it looks like that day has come as my compressor has started cycling, and looking at it I can see some leakage around the front and rear seals - so I figure it's got a slow leak.

Now, this used unit looks really clean and fresh, but it has been sitting in my garage for 4+ years. Is there anyway to perform some basic checks on it before I attempt to install it in the car? Freon is not cheap here in Canada so I'd like to avoid installing a dead compressor and not finding out until I get it charged, and then end up wasting a charge.

paulo57509

How was this used compressor stored? Was it open to the atmosphere or was the ports plugged? Was the oil left in it or was it drained?

Personally, I would avoid using any used A/C components. Looks can be deceptive.

dmccain

iTrader: (2)

I have one taken off an 87 Iroc V-belt style. PO told me he had only ran it two months before he sold me the engine 2-3 yrs ago. If you need it PM me I'd cut you a good deal on it. Alternator was newer also and I'd part with it as well. I can't use it.

Aaron R.

I would just throw it on and find out. Pull a good vacuum on the system and charge it with the cheapest freon substitute you can find. In the States you can get R134 in 12oz cans at Wal-Mart for $4.88 or so. Don't buy it at the auto parts stores, they will screw you on price for the same stuff (all R134 is the same). You can also use air duster cans (from Wal-Mart or similar). 3 cans of that usually runs $10-$15. If you want a propane substitute Google "Enviro-safe". I have run all three of those and had equal results with each. The R134 is so cheap by me that I just always use it now, but the next best option is usually the air duster. Search the cooling forum for "air duster" and you should get lots of threads.

Firm84

Thanks guys - I am leaning towards throwing it on as well. Cheapest I can find R134 in my area is $10/can, but I figure that's not too bad, if memory serves my car takes 2-cans, so it'll only cost me $20 if the compressor is junk. Will check into the air duster thing...