Just replaced my A/C condenser, now what?

[Astroman]

I finally replaced my condenser last week as the old one was damaged 16 months ago and my cousin had the car for nearly 10 of those months.

My question is can I just go buy a large can of the R134 and fill 'er up or is there a certain process to refilling an empty system? Would it be best to take it to a shop? I have your regular basic tools but none of the fancy a/c stuff. I know where the upper line is to fill from but wasn't sure if I had to bleed the system as I know it's full of air right now.

Thanks!

[CTScott]

I finally replaced my condenser last week as the old one was damaged 16 months ago and my cousin had the car for nearly 10 of those months.

My question is can I just go buy a large can of the R134 and fill 'er up or is there a certain process to refilling an empty system? Would it be best to take it to a shop? I have your regular basic tools but none of the fancy a/c stuff. I know where the upper line is to fill from but wasn't sure if I had to bleed the system as I know it's full of air right now.

Thanks!

No! You have to evacuate the system before refilling. There is moisture and various airborne particulates that have entered the system while it was disconnected, so it has to be purged by evacuating it with a vacuum pump. The desiccant dryer cartridge (which is located in the fat tube on the condenser) should also be changed unless you bought a brand new condenser.

[justjesus]

WHEW !

Thanks Scott ! !

(now I know for the future)

[CTScott]

I've done enough of them myself that I now own a good vacuum pump and manifold gauge set. I think I have about $250 invested, but it only takes paying for one or two to be done to justify the cost. If I am doing something with a system that is still full, I do pop by a shop to have them pull the refrigerant out, as it is illegal to purposely release it into the atmosphere.

[Astroman]

Ok thanks! Look like I'll pop into a shop and have it filled then. I definitely do not have what I need.

[Astroman]

Thanks to my cousin telling me he fixed the leak I emptied half a can on the parking lot of autozone. :frown: