Ac compressor repair.

[Dwilson540]

I’m going to replace the compressor on my Kubota L4200. I just learned that I can borrow the gauges at O’Reilly. Looks like I just bleed off the Freon to reduce the pressure in the lines. Then reduce the tension on the belt. Remove and replace the compressor. Recharge with Freon. I’m guessing the compressor will have information as to the psi required. Any information that will make this less complicated would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

[Eagle1]

Once you open the system you really should run a vacuum to remove any moisture and check for leaks.
After a compressor replacement I would add some compressor oil back into the system, how much depends on if the compressor is oiled before installation or used, etc.
Normally refrigerant is added by weight not pressure. Your compressor will generate the pressure on the high side and the low side pressure should be enough to ensure the system is full and that the expansion valve is working properly.
Details vary between systems.
Not a hard job and all the tools will cost less than paying a shop, any future uses is a bonus.

 

[Harry in Ky]

There's more to servicing A/C systems than the "nuts and bolts" then adding freon. Why does the compressor need to be replaced?

 

[thclimer]

There are specific details for the required vacuum to be pulled and for how long it has to be held. If you don't do it correctly there will be moisture in the system which will probably mess up the small port on your expansion valve. Do not skip this step.

 

[Tinhack]

Looks like I just bleed off the Freon to reduce the pressure in the lines.

That would be a $10,000 fine.

As @Harry in Ky states, why are you replacing the compressor? You could be ruining that one too. If something came apart and the system is contaminated, you'll just waste the new compressor.

 

[chim]

Your post makes it sound like you haven't had any exposure to this sort of work. If you don't have a WSM and good mechanical aptitude, get someone else to do it or coach you in person.

 

[JTKub]

What type of failure did the OEM compressor have? You'll want to inspect the inlet screen/filter/dryer for debris. And you should replace the valves in the service ports.

If the failed compressor sent metallic bits through the system, the replacement compressor will fail in short order also if you didn't flush the system or replace the evaporator and condensor. Debris in the system is a whole nother animal..

Replacement a/c compressors are also a big issue today. Many can be junk right out of the box. It's best to stay OEM if you can swing it.

 

[Mike1955]

They used to use dryer filters in automobile air conditioners. And anytime we did a compressor change we change it. For protection of the new one an assured of no moisture in the system. It is the thing under the sightglass

 

[Dwilson540]

There's more to servicing A/C systems than the "nuts and bolts" then adding freon. Why does the compressor need to be replaced?

OK, I think I might be above my pay grade. Basically I get cold air from the outlet, but then it stops, I hear a squeal from the engine. Belt isn't moving the pulley like it should. Can I just replace the clutch? Kind of like the clutch on my riding mower?

 

[Eagle1]

OK, I think I might be above my pay grade. Basically I get cold air from the outlet, but then it stops, I hear a squeal from the engine. Belt isn't moving the pulley like it should. Can I just replace the clutch? Kind of like the clutch on my riding mower?

Clutch should be replaceable without opening the ac system. At least on all cars it is not a hard job except to gain access in some cases.

 

[Chewwy]

You need to properly diagnose the problem. Don’t just jump into parts replacement mode. Get an experienced a/c technician involved. Doesn’t need to be tractor specific.

All mobile a/c systems operate pretty much the same. The parts may be unique to the manufacturer but the diagnosis is generic.

 

[OldTrix]

Are you saying the clutch drops out after the compressor runs for a bit, or are you saying the whole thing locks up solid and stops turning, smoking the belt? The former is more easily solved than the latter.

 

[Mike1955]

It most likely isn’t a defective clutch. To much pressure causes belts squalling and clutch slipping. Sir I’m with the guy that suggested a professional ac tech. Please follow up with us

 

[Mike1955]

Silly question but have you cleaned and blew out the condenser and all the stuff up in the front. At first I was thinking your compressor had locked up. That causes your symptoms of belt slipping and stuff

 

[Tinhack]

Basically I get cold air from the outlet, but then it stops, I hear a squeal from the engine. Belt isn't moving the pulley like it should. Can I just replace the clutch?

It's not a clutch problem. Sounds like the system is over charged or the compressor is cratered already. And it's not as simple as just replacing the compressor.

 

[Harry in Ky]

We saw at the beginning of all this something about borrowing gauges. So far, no report on how that worked out. Just a lot of "it might be this, it might be that, do this, do that."

A/C servicing works best with gauges involved rather than guesswork.

 

[RayIN]

This is perhaps the most informative website on 12V air conditioning on the web and offers an excellent explanation of how/why each component works: Resource Hub - BTRAC

The issue can be as simple as a loose drive belt, or as complicated as you can imagine.