AC issues

[Peter Golledge]

Geraint,

See my comments below 

> I have some questions about the AC
> the car is a 200 10v TQA MCII 1989
> 
> the ac compressor grenaded last friday.
> I need to change it, but haven't played with ac before.
> there is a lot of info onthe list/ archive, but i'm a bit
confused/overwhelmed

> It would seem that i need to convert the system to r134a What i intend to
do following info that I have read on > the list:

> 1. get the system drained and flushed . I think that it's R12 at the
moment, but i'm not sure. I'm in touch with > the former owner about this

Should be R12 unless converted.  Cheapest option is to have the system
evacuated and then pull it apart yourself.

> 2. buy a compressor, drier/accumulator and nozzle/restrictor

I had a Compressor rebuild done by Polar Bear in Fl... Still running well
after some 5 years.  The dier and orifice tube are readily available.

> 3. buy an o ring kit from NAPA or somewhere

Got mine from NAPA... Wish I could find the package info.  Need PAG oil if
the kit does not have it.

> 4 fit 2 & 3

I would replace the hoses, had mine fabricated while I waited by the local
Truck service place.  
 
> 5. refill with R134a (either me or a pro)

Best to do with a proper vacuum pump/gauges/scales, should find many shops
are reasonable for this service.

> questions are

> is the above true?
> do the existing hoses need changing as well?

I would recommend fully flushing/pull apart with a bad compressor... You are
80% of the way might as well spend another $100 on hoses.

> is a replacement (nippondenso) compressor already R134a compatible or do i
need to modify it?
> have i missed anything?

Any rebuild should be filled with compatible oil.

> any help would be appreciated