Ford Repair: Air Conditioning, astro van, salvage yard

Question
Hello Ken,
My air conditioning on my 89 Astro van isn't working, although the unit,(compressor, etc.) is there. I wonder if it would be cheaper to have it tested and repaired, or have a new one installed?
 By the way..can one still get those air conditioners that sit in between the seats or on the console like the old "Sears" brand ones? Would that type be cheaper?
 Thank you very much. Mike Eidson

Answer
Mike,

I can not help you on whether or not they still make the kind of AC that sits on the console or in between the seats but as far as replacing the whole AC system, that depends. If the compressor is bad, that alone is 3-400 $$ plus labor. I would start by going to a reputable salvage yard and get a different compressor and replace the old one that is on there now. Hope that this helps and if you need more help, please let me know. Good luck.


Ken