A/C Compressor

1995 Buick Roadmaster with 350 LT1 engine:

The original air unit had signs of leaking , so, I told my mechanic to replace it.  That was my first mistake!!  He has now put on a total of 3 and the last one woked for 30 minutes.  He says that is because they are being rebuild in China!

My options?  Have him do it one more time?  It is on his dime!! Have him get one from a recycle yard?? Other sources for a unit that will work for more than a couple of weeks?  What other items to check/look at/??

Appreciate any inputs..

Rock auto sells NEW AC Delco compressors. Delphi is probably the same part, because they make the compressors for AC Delco. Make sure every part of the system is cleaned properly, so you do not become a victim of the "black death". If the compressor fails, you need to have the entire system cleaned until the solvent comes out clear. I used brake cleaner or carburetor cleaner for the last step of cleaning, because any residual fluid will evaporate in a few minutes. You should also change the orifice tube, and the accumulator/dryer. Everything must be operating room sanitary.

Thanks. Just what I needed.....an expert on these vehicles. I'll print this off and give it to my guy.............I'm never sure just how much he knows about the "older" vehicles!!!

There is nothing old or expert about Fred's advice that any tech wouldn't (should) know. Buy a quality part, and flush AC (and replace drier, and fill with correct amount of oil) when doing AC work. That applies to 40 year old or 40 day old cars. The principles of auto AC haven't changed since... auto AC was invented.

I am not an expert, I just have some experience, and listen to other knowledgeable people. I do not like to find out for myself, when someone else did it already. You do not have to reinvent the wheel.

If the compressors actually worked for a few minutes and then died, your system is contaminated, or the incorrect oil charge was used. Unlike R12, R134a is not a solvent. If the correct PAG oil in the right amount is not in the compressor at startup, it will lead a short and unhappy life.

If all Chinese parts were removed from cars, the roads would be a parking lot.

Rev Bob wrote:

If all Chinese parts were removed from cars, the roads would be a parking lot.

The Chinese parts make their contribution by keeping a number of vehicles off the road
intermittently: thereby reducing traffic congestion.