Question: Air Compressor & Dryer

[berry1133@bellsouth.net]

Hello guys. When I purchased my '81, the previous short-term owner informed that the compressor was bad but he had purchased a new compressor and dryer bottle. How difficult is it to change out the compressor and, do I access the dryer bottle from the underside of the vehicle?

Thanks,
BBerry

 

[VetteV8]

To change the compressor must be easy; do not connect the electrical plug however, as the system needs to be lubricated and charged first. To change the dryer I am not sure, but knowing the location, I would think it would be done from above; once that is out, take the heater motor out, and clean the interior.

That's what I need to do, hence I know the surroundings ...................
Cor

 

[bill81vette]

The compressor can be removed from the top with the hood opened, you will need to remove the 'gill' from the right side of the fender(4 screws) and use good size wrenches (1"or bigger as I recall)....they are on VERY tight!!!!!! and hang on to them so you don't break the fiberglass!!!!
You might consider an a/c or radiator shop if it is still charged..




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[VetteV8]

Bill, I think you refer to the dryer in your reply, and not to the compressor........
Cor

 

[6880 Mike]

Before you make any changes to the AC system, check your local laws. In most places, it is against the law to vent R12 into the atmosphere. Any automotive AC shop can evaculate the R12 from your car and properly dispose of it.

If you want to make the change to R134A, now would be the time to do it.

 

[bill81vette]

Bill, I think you refer to the dryer in your reply, and not to the compressor........
Cor

I've removed both....
The dryer came out thru the side of the fender....
Compressor out the top...


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[berry1133@bellsouth.net]

Thanks guys. From the sound of it, I may opt to take into an automotive shop and let them do what they specialize in.

Thanks for the info.

BBerry

 

[berry1133@bellsouth.net]

I cannot get the compressor to come on. I noticed that I d not have any power at the connector. 20 amp fuse is okay. Any suggestions on troubleshooting this? Also, if I provide a 12v source to the compressor, should it cycle? Or, should I not do this? Thanks.

BBerry

 

[6880 Mike]

Is the system charged? The thermal limit switch will not allow the compressor to engage if it isn't. Personally, I would not try jumping it. If it's going to run, the console switch will turn it on.

 

[VetteV8]

I cannot get the compressor to come on. I noticed that I d not have any power at the connector. 20 amp fuse is okay. Any suggestions on troubleshooting this? Also, if I provide a 12v source to the compressor, should it cycle? Or, should I not do this? Thanks.

BBerry

I assume that your system pressure is too low; there is a pressure switch on the dryer.
If the pressure is too low, the compressor is protected by the switch.
You could try to jump the switch, or put power on de compressor; do take care of the polarity.
If the compressor then runs, you know that the compressor clutch is OK, but do this only briefly.
Recharging is then essential: see your AC specialist.
Cor

 

[berry1133@bellsouth.net]

Thanks for the info guys.