Compressor seized immediately after replacement of AC blower motor and resister

Tiny
ISSIS
  • MEMBER
  • 2005 CHRYSLER TOWN AND COUNTRY
  • 3.8L
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 47,000 MILES
A/C air was lukewarm and air flow thru front outlets became intermittent, but mostly there was none. Fuses were okay so Tire Choice mechanics indicated a new blower mower and resistor was necessary, which made sense. After installation, system was recharged. Dye was used to check for leaks air flow/selection worked but air was lukewarm. I was told to drive the car for a week and return so they could recheck pressure and identify any leaks. They also said that the compressor, expansion value and drier would have to be replaced since the seals were probably damaged and particles might have caused blockages, thus explaining the lack of cool air following installation of the new blower and resistor. Since they have doubled the charges for those two components (compared to if I had purchased them myself) I asked for an estimate and said I would return in a day or two after researching the proposed, additional, work. They did not warn me of any danger in driving the car. Upon leaving Tire Choice I drove about eight miles when a burning rubber smell was followed by smoke billowing from the engine. I immediately stopped. Opening the hood it appeared that the compressor belt was burning/melting. I had the car towed to my home. It appears the compressor/clutch froze and the belt began to burn. The attached images show the belt. My question is, in installing the blower motor and resistor did the mechanic cause debris to enter the system or otherwise cause the failure of the compressor? Since he said there might be a leak in the system, so used dye when recharging it, could that process have adversely affected the compressor? Finally, if I pay to install a new compressor, expansion value and drier, what other parts/processes might still fail that would adversely affect the A/C system? Finally, 4-Seasons and Santech AC Kits offer a limited lifetime warranty vs. The normal two or three years. Do you approve of these kits, or are there others you would recommend? I would like to purchase the parts myself and simply pay Tire Choice or whoever to install them. Should I select another service other than Tire Choice and have them review the work done by Tire Choice to ensure there are no other issues resulting from the installation of the blower and resistor? Thank you for whatever assistance you can provide.
Monday, March 26th, 2018 AT 11:21 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
ASEMASTER6371
  • MECHANIC
  • 52,797 POSTS
Good morning.

No, the blower/resistor replacement had no effect on the compressor failure.

Both brands are good brands for the parts. The issue you will face is there will be no warranty on the repair if you provide the parts. If there are any issues beyond that, it will be on you. Profit is what keeps a business working. They cannot give parts away at cost and stay in business plus they stand behind the repair as a result.

Getting a second opinion at this point would not benefit you. You will need to replace the parts required and start from there. Then the system will have to checked again for any leaks.

I would look for another shop if you do not have confidence in the one you are using.

Roy
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Tuesday, March 27th, 2018 AT 4:04 AM

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