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A/C compressor replacement?

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Old 07-17-2022, 05:42 PM
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nile13
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Default A/C compressor replacement?

Came back from Europe after 3 years and a war... to find out a few things wrong, including a seized A/C compressor. Boy, does that belt smoke a lot when the clutch kicks in...

So, is it possible to unseize it somehow or is it better to just buy a replacement? I vaguely remember that a Denso compressor should work, did a search and found this one: https://www1.rockauto.com/en/moreinf...eT1Y8TdsrEEGpd Is that the right part? How hard is it to replace, what is needed, if anything?

Thanks in advance!
Old 07-18-2022, 01:52 AM
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GJSPIN
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I have replaced the compressor on my1988 911G which is very similar to the 993. Most recently bought a remanufactured one from Denso and replaced the drier too. You'll want to do that with the 993 then have the system evacuated and refilled with R134 refrigerant. The job shouldn't take much more than a couple of hours and you'll likely want to replace the belt too.
Old 07-18-2022, 02:28 PM
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Thank you. Any specific tools for compressor replacement or did the shop do it? Also, any way to un-seaze the existing compressor, at least for a while?
Old 07-18-2022, 09:19 PM
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71-3.0-911
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The compressor should be a pretty easy swap. The hardest part is likely the hard lines. I'd say 10 mins to get it out. Then you'll need to recharge the refrigerant. Easy day. Double check the seals while you're in there.
Old 07-19-2022, 01:06 AM
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Thanks! Which seals to check and how?
Old 07-23-2022, 05:28 PM
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So, the question I still would like to get ideas on - is it possible to un-seaze the compressor and how does one try it without breaking open the lines?
Old 07-23-2022, 08:04 PM
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Hi Nile13,

A seized compressor could release some metal bits into the system, and cause more serious problems, such as clogging the expansion valve. I wouldn't try to get it going again. Keep you finger crossed it hasn't already released shrapnel.

I would replace the compressor, then take the car to a good AC shop to have the system evacuated and recharged. They should know how much oil to put in the system.

The compressor is a Denso 10PA 15C, widely available--try to get one that has the clutch and correct pulley already mounted.

There are five bolts in a vertical position that hold the compressor in place, three on the left and two on the right. When you are removing the bolts on the left side, the second one from the rear is left in place, no need to remove it. When I reinstall a compressor, I wear a thin rubber glove on your right hand, with a tiny magnet in the tip of one finger, to help hold the big square nuts while re-threading the long bolts.

I find it easier to put the belt on the compressor by rotating it a bit clockwise (viewed from the top), then rotate it into mounting position.

Some years ago, I had a seized compressor on my 1983 911SC. It threw the belt, and I replaced the compressor, had the system evacuated and recharged, and all was well. Hopes yours turns out the same.
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Old 07-24-2022, 12:54 AM
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Thanks, Bobby! Sounds about right from memory of replacing belts before. I'm just a bit surprised that the compressor seized when the car was in 22-month storage. Since it has not turned, I don'tthink there's any metal in the lines, right? Just don't clearly understand what the reason is for that kind of seizure

As far as compressor - do you thik the Denso referenced above is the right one with the right pulley and clutch?
Old 07-24-2022, 09:50 AM
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95_993
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Nile

There may have been some moisture in the system somehow which would contribute seizing while sitting.
Old 07-24-2022, 05:15 PM
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Originally Posted by 95_993
Nile

There may have been some moisture in the system somehow which would contribute seizing while sitting.
That's true, haven't thought about this. I also need to figure who in Boston area is capable of doing A/C work on this car. Nobody comes to mind. Any suggestions?

Another problem I have is the heater fan fuse keeps popping. Either immediately or after a very short period. So I need to see what's going on with the two cabin fans.
Old 07-24-2022, 09:59 PM
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A couple local shops in Boston area can do AC.
EPE in Natick
Euro tech (Bill Pfister) in Framingham
Auto Engineering in Lexington
Old 07-25-2022, 03:52 AM
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The usual suspects, than. I'll probably try Mike at German Engineering in Brighton, he did my A/C condenser a few years ago.
Old 07-25-2022, 03:11 PM
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Originally Posted by nile13
That's true, haven't thought about this. I also need to figure who in Boston area is capable of doing A/C work on this car. Nobody comes to mind. Any suggestions?

Another problem I have is the heater fan fuse keeps popping. Either immediately or after a very short period. So I need to see what's going on with the two cabin fans.
You could also try Kevin Saltzman at Randolph Racing in Stoughton, or Justin at South Shore Autoworks. Both are very familiar with these cars

Last edited by alsamrob4; 07-25-2022 at 03:11 PM. Reason: typo
Old 07-25-2022, 03:58 PM
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Thanks! Will investigate. Brighton is the closest here.

Last edited by nile13; 07-25-2022 at 04:00 PM.
Old 07-25-2022, 04:02 PM
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Originally Posted by nile13
Thanks! Have not heard of South Shore Autoworks. Will investigate.
They are in Kingston, MA right off of Rte 3, Exit 20. Garage is immaculate and there are always very interesting cars to drool over


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