A/C condenser

[chillin_illin]

Im replacing my ac condenser due to leakage. Now that the system is evacuated should I replace anything else? or check elsewhere for leakage?
Any advice or help would be appreciated. thanks

 

[stamp11127]

Since the system is evacuated it doesn't hurt to add die and check for additional leaks. You're going to recharge it away...

Ran across something interesting on the a/c systems used on our school buses - manufacturer recommends changing out the drier on a yearly basis. Haven't changed it on my Expy but if it isn't hard to get to why not? ThermoKing also recommended checking the acidity of the oil during that process. Hmmm makes you wonder.

 

[chillin_illin]

Ok will do. Thanks.
Would you recommend on changing the expansion valve as well?

 

[stamp11127]

I'd flush the evap and lines, catch what comes out in a clean rag. That will tell you if anything else is going on in the system. Any shiny particles or black crap the answer is yes. If so, change the compressor & drier also.

We're using Semi Truck air line deicer to flush everything. Cheaper than the real stuff and evaps quickly.

 

[chillin_illin]

ok im good with working on everything else. but I don't know much about AC systems. how do I flush out the evap and lines?

 

[stamp11127]

You can get canisters that hold the flush and are pressurized with shop air. Examples are listed below.

Super price on Mastercool 91046-A at ToolTopia.com

Super price on FJC 2710 at ToolTopia.com

A/C 101: Towards the bottom of the page are the study guides to download.
Section 609 Main

 

[buildingdoc]

I would change a drier on an ac system any time the system has a leak or opened for any time the system is opened. Replacing every year is a little over kill. I would go every 3-4 years maybe. Not a bad idea to add dye to identify future leaks and doesn't hurt the system. Flushing the evap is not a bad idea either. Remove the expansion valve and if you can finish the flush by blowing nitrogen through it. This will help eliminate moisture in the system.

As for recharge... I would have a shop recharge it for you as they charge the system by weight and not pressures.