AC Compressor Replacement DIY????

[Seerlah]

I am going to need to replace my AC compressor soon. It's still functioning and so forth, but the noise states it needs tending to. But I can't seem to find a DIY write up for it. Can anybodty post a link if they have one, or write step by step procedure (in detail) I would need to take? Thanks!

[PoormansA4]

when i did mine i was pulling the motor at the sometime,id pull the front like a timing belt job to get the belt off(unless u can get it off another way). but if you go that route its pretty straight forward, just make sure you evacuate the system before disconnection the lines, and when you get it back together your gonna need a manifold set with gauges or take it somewhere to vacuum the system before it can be charged. sorry wasnt in very detail but hope it helps

[Seerlah]

Bumping this thread.

I just ordered a new AC belt along with AC tensioner and compressor oil. Compressors are pricey, so I am still on the search for the best prices that offer warranties. Might have to stop at an autoparts store to see what they have to offer. Anyways, can someone eleborate on how to go about replacing the compressor? I don't plan on removing the front end, as I think there is enough space for me to work. If not, I will just pull the radiator/support forward a bit for more breathing room. But how do I go about removing the refridgerant (sp??) as to not cause a bio-hazard to the environment? After that, I am pretty sure it is simple as removing old belt, compressor (adding new oil), and tensioner then replacing. Then don't turn on the AC, bring it to a shop, have them vacuum the system, and refill with refridgerant?

Just want some pointers before going at it, and corrections in the way I am going to go about it. Thanks!

[zrowcool]

the same shop that can refill can take the refridgerant out. we use the snap-on auto a/c machine where i work at. it can pull all the refridgerant out and store it in a tank. then you can change it and it can vacuum the sytem for 30mins and refill with oil/refridgerant.

[Dallas09]

Yeah theres no way to remove the refrigerant yourself unless you have the expensive machine. They will refill it with refrigerant and oil.

[Seerlah]

So, you are saying I should find a shop to take out the refridgerant for me, I take the car home, wrench on it, return to the shop and they can take care of the rest?

[redB5]

I had to remove mine recently to fix a leaking turbo oil return line.. no need to remove the bumper. I just loosened the 2 bolts on the belt tensioner, removed the belt, then 3 bolts on the compressor and it's out. I obviously left the lines attached but you should be able to remove them easily once it's out.

[Seerlah]

Cool. I am going to be on the hunt this week for a good replacement. And hopefully have it replaced week after next. I need to tackle replacing my turbo this week, so the compressor will have to wait for the week after.

[dowsett6]

Hey Seerlah, I just took mine off. and I had the garage suck the freon out for 20 bucks cash. I dont know about putting it back in as I am taking mine off for good to fit my intercooler easier.

I dont know if you are looking at used ones at all but if you are interested I have one sitting here. It was working like a charm before I took it off.

Just like redB5 said, you can do it without taking the front off. I just had my front end up on jackstands to do it. If you want pics of the mount without the compressor on it let me know and I will take some for you. It might help in showing which bolts you need to remove.

And if your interested in my compressor itself send me a PM or email me at [email protected]

[Seerlah]

As far as I know, the AEB, ATW (there are units built that work both the ATW and AEB, but not the AWM), and AWM all have different compressors. I have an AWM, but thanks for the offer and tip.

[dowsett6]

Thanks I did not know they were different... Its good to know so I make sure I dont sell it to the wrong engine owner.

[Seerlah]

Most places list the for many years, but it does not work like that. But the one you have should work on the 97-99.5. Maybe the ATW also.

[sgt_g]

I have one for an AWM that I don't need got it because i thought mine went bad but it turned out the tensioner seized and snapped the belt. It was a j/Y Pull so I'm not compleatly sure on the milage but i remember it being around 60K

[Seerlah]

How much you want for it? Send me a PM

[ddunk80]

Without special tools and adequate knowledge, rebuilding an A/C compressor is essentially impossible. Replacing it can also be problematic without knowledge of how to do the complete repair, replace drier/accumulator? flush system? add proper amount and type of oil?. If you don't already KNOW what you're doing, either get knowledgeable help someone who KNOWS what he's doing, not just THINKS he knows or have a competent shop take care of it.

[revolution337]

just posting this up in case anyone needs a compressor. AWM only

http://www.ecstuning.com/Audi-B5_A4-...ning/ES505722/

[Seerlah]

^That's where I scooped mine up at. They had the clearance start maybe 2 days after I started this thread.

[ECS Tuning-Audi]

just posting this up in case anyone needs a compressor. AWM only

http://www.ecstuning.com/Audi-B5_A4-...ning/ES505722/

Thanks for the support!!

As always let me know if you have any questions.

Pete

[harryn]

Sorry to resurrect the thread, but my compressor died on my B5 as well. From what little to no info I read, you have to replace the dryer and compressor together. Now my dryer is still original. Same with the compressor. But is it a good idea to replace the condenser as well? Even if there is no leaking? I know seals need to be replaced as well, the lines I know are not leaking, but the Schrader valves are.

[Akabetterthanu]

if your compressor didn’t grenade and send internals through the whole system. You should only need to vacuum system, change compressor and drier, and pressure valve. Keep the new drier sealed until you’re ready to install


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[harryn]

if your compressor didn’t grenade and send internals through the whole system. You should only need to vacuum system, change compressor and drier, and pressure valve. Keep the new drier sealed until you’re ready to install


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Yeah that's what I'm doing now. Keeping everything sealed and watching the pressure. It was at 150 (didn't catch the units of measurement on the AC Pro reader) and had to make a call to my friend to vacuum out the system. Thankfully we got it down to 40 and it's been stable. He told me to not run the AC until I get the entire system replaced to avoid overcharging the entire system again.

Right now, if I try to turn on the AC, nada. I don't hear the compressor turning on at all. We tried filling it a little and see if the AC temp changes, nada. I don't even hear the compressor kicking on, even though it's been working great these past 4 years I've owned the car. Thankfully the lines never sweated or had condensation. Just the Schrader valve.

And speaking of which, does the AC system have a fuse or relay I can check? I want to make sure before I plop down $600, that I am indeed in need of a new compressor and dryer.

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