Auto Air Conditioning & Heater Repair: Honda Accord 97 a/c problem, honda shop, orifice tube

Question
Thank you very much for your time.  My car's problem is that the a/c stopped working a couple of days ago suddenly (one time it was on, then the next time I turned on the car it didn't work) and when I turn on the a/c there is a high-pitched, muffled (low volume) hissing sound comming from the condenser.  I just bought the car recently (theft salvage) and had the a/c filled (as well as other problems from the theft).  I tried taking out the condenser to look at it, but I didn't have much luck finding other clues b/c I couldn't get it out.  If you have any advice, I'd be much obliged.
Thanks,
Abe  

Answer
Are you referring to the CONDENSOR which is mounted in front of the radiator OR the EVAPORATOR mounted near the firewall of the dash panel ?.

This hissing is usually caused by the ORIFICE TUBE (expansion valve) and is NORMAL on some vehicle models to make this noise and is of no concern.

Your problem, Since it is a salvage unit could be anyone of the numerous sensors in the system that is faulty due to moisture getting into the ac system since the system was empty of all freon for an unknown amount of time..

There are numerous tests that will require the Honda shop manual in oredr to test all the circuits, sensors and relays involved.