Rebuilt A/C compressor warranty woes

[Wallace White]

I could use some advice on dealing with a failed rebuilt A/C compressor on my
5k.

A few months ago, it had suddenly become very noisy. I took it to the
neighborhood mechanic and got a good quote for $800 for the job, with a
rebuilt compressor, which I took. That did not include the receiver/dryer or
the orifice valve; I explained that I would be happy to pay for those, but the
mechanic said they didn't need replacement since the system was still sealed
well and the compressor hadn't grenaded. (Another, recommended shop gave a
rough estimate of $1400, including new compressor and of course those items.)

Almost immediately after replacement, the new compressor made a steady,
medium-pitch whirring noise. It peaked at about 1800 engine RPM. I took it
back and the mechanic said it seemed okay but to let him know if it increased.
Also the A/C wasn't super-cool, but it never has been in my four years, even
with a fresh charge.

Recently, while driving all day in 100 °F heat, the A/C stopped blowing cool
at all. The next morning, it was making lots of noise (not a nice, orderly
whir) all the time; the head of the compressor, in front of the belt, was
spinning slowly even when the A/C was turned off.

The mechanic said "bad compressor" and agreed to replace it under warranty.
But now his distributor's warranty claim sheet requires receipts for the
receiver/dryer and orifice valve...

Is he right that those didn't _have_ to be replaced initially? If he does get
the thing replaced under warranty now, had I better get those parts replaced
this time?

And yes, Steve Jensen, it's a Four Seizin' (nee "Four Seasons") compressor. I
hate it when I ask for advice beforehand and then I don't follow it, 'cause
it's too expensive... durn. The mechanic agrees that I shouldn't have to pay
for a new compressor but he doesn't want to either and it could get unpleasant
if the distributor won't warranty the part. I suppose I'd offer to pay however
much it would've been to do it right the first time but he'd be on the hook
for the rest.

Thanks,
Wallace
'87 5kcstq 190k


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