93 F-150 AC conversion

[TxAggie94]

I have a 93 F-150. The air conditioner has not worked for at least 2 years, but I do not know what the original problem was. I do not know if there was a known problem with one of the components, or if the coolant just leaked out and was never replaced.

Now the bearing is going out, so it is decision time. What would it take as a minimum to convert the system. I know there are conversion kits, but given that I need a new compressor, would any of the other components necessarily have to be changed?

If I can change the compressor and replace the seals only, then maybe it is worth doing. But if I have to also change other components or even the lines, then it is starting to not make sense.

Obviously, not knowing the condition of the other components presents a risk to trying to convert.

Thanks

(just a test by Tom Greenleaf)

[ACProf]

If its the internal bearings of the compressor, then the entire system should be flushed free for old oil, metal particles, and contaminates. If the system has actually been open or filled with air and moisture, the system should be flushed anyway.

In addition to the compressor, the receiver dryer must be changed. All the hoses and crimped connections should be checked for deterioration, cracking, and leakage. Look for oil slicks on the hoses and at the junctions and fittings. Check the condenser for cleanliness and damage as well. THe condenser should be backflushed and check for flow.

Taking shortcuts in A/C restoration only causes more expense down the road when the compressor crashes from previous system contamination and you get to start all over again.

I would slighly precharge the system after flushing all the lines, and replacing the compressor and drier, and go sniffing for refrigerant leaks before anything else. Running the compressor low on refrigerant (and lubricant as a result) will destroy its bearings in short order.

A REAL A/C shop can do the initial charging and leak checking for a reasonable rate and you can avoid purchasing expensive diagnostic equipment.

ACProf

[alexx_2010]

If its the internal bearings of the compressor, then the entire system should be flushed free for old oil, metal particles, contaminates and air moisture. To keep it in good condition the system should be flushed anyway.