A/C compressor?

RICKYSH11

MEMBER
2006 NISSAN ALTIMA
3.5L
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
120,000 MILES

Recently I replaced my A/C compressor with a used one. I had the system evacuated beforehand at a local shop. After installing the used one I used a vacuum pump with manifold gauges to remove any water or air and to pull a vacuum. After having the pump on for half an hour I was unable to get a vacuum and not able to recharge the system. At this point I am trying to figure out what would stop the system from achieving a vacuum.

7 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,269 POSTS

Hi,

If you are unable to hold a vacuum, there must be a leak at some point allowing air to enter the system. Were you able to get any Freon into the system?

Take a look through this link and let me know if you are able to find anything:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/air-conditioner-leak-detection

Also, I don't know if you did this or not, but chances are the used compressor lost its oil. You need to make sure there is enough PAG oil in it before use.

Let me know.

Joe

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Saturday, July 30th, 2022 AT 11:38 PM

RICKYSH11

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74 POSTS

Thanks for answering my question. I was not able to get any in it.

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Wednesday, August 3rd, 2022 AT 2:42 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,269 POSTS

What I would recommend at this point is to start looking for the leak. See if the link I attached above is helpful. If it isn't, let me know.

Also, when you say you were unable to get any Freon in the system, what were you using to charge it? Also, are there any issues with the Schrader valve?

Let me know.

Joe

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Wednesday, August 3rd, 2022 AT 7:33 PM

RICKYSH11

MEMBER
74 POSTS

Okay, thanks. I will start to search for any leaks. I was using manifold gauges and R-134a to charge it. I believe I wasn't able to charge it with refrigerant because the clutch wouldn't engage. I'm thinking due to the lack of pressure from evacuating the system may have caused the disengagement. No issues with the Schrader valve. I guess now my question would be is would the clutch not engaging prevent it from achieving a vacuum? If not, maybe the compressor is just no good?

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Wednesday, August 3rd, 2022 AT 8:44 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,269 POSTS

When you draw a vacuum, the system is off, so the clutch wouldn't change anything. Since it won't hold a vacuum, I suspect any Freon you install will leak right back out.

Could it be the compressor? Absolutely.

Here is a link you may find of interest:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-air-conditioner-not-working-or-is-weak

Let me know what you find.

Joe