QuestionI own a 94 ford explorer automatic with air conditioning. The ac compressor seizes up when i turn on the ac. the pulley locks up and the belt slides around it burning it up. A mechanic told me that the compressor needs to be replaced and I know that freon isn't something I should mess around with. He just unplugged the wiring harness so that it cannot be turned on. I noticed that the compressor is in two parts; a front part with the pulley and wiring harness is bolted onto a back piece which has hoses runing to the back of. I was hoping to fix the ac myself. Is there anyway I can replace just the front portion or maybe have a lube shop deal with the freon and do the swap myself?
AnswerIt's really NOT that simple. You would have to:
replace the complete compressor assembly.
replace the orifice tube.
replace the accumulator.
Use a flushing machine to flush out all the small metal fragments that are strewn throughout the entire ac system.
You would need the EXACT specifications of how much refrigerant oil to add to each major component as well as the EXACT amount of freon.
The you would have to have the completed repaired system checked for any leaks using an electronic leak detector.
Then you would recharge the system with freon and re-check for leaks.
And lastly the repair facility who charges your system will NOT guarantee that you will not develop ant leaks tomorrow, next week or next monthe because YOU did the installation work.
In most cases you would be forever paying to have the system recharged and looking for leaks at approx $150.00 a shot.
It is best to bite the bullet and let a facility do the work so that you get a GUARANTEE for leaks.
