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A/C Compressor Replacement

NOTE: Do not install the A/C compressor into a system unless you are completely sure that the system is free of contamination. Installing the A/C compressor into a contaminated system can result in premature A/C compressor failure.
  1. If the A/C compressor is marginally operable, run the engine at idle speed, and let the air conditioning work for a few minutes, then shut the engine off.
  2. Recover the refrigerant with a recovery/recycling/charging station (see REFRIGERANT RECOVERY ).
  3. Do the battery terminal disconnection procedure (see BATTERY TERMINAL DISCONNECTION AND RECONNECTION ).
  4. Remove the alternator (see ALTERNATOR REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION ).
  5. Remove the A/C condenser fan shroud (see RADIATOR AND FAN REPLACEMENT ).
  6. Disconnect the connector from the A/C compressor clutch. Remove the bolt and the nut, then disconnect the suction hose (A) and the discharge hose (B) from the A/C compressor. Plug or cap the hoses immediately after disconnecting them to avoid moisture and dust contamination.
    Fig 1: Identifying Suction Hose And Discharge Hose
    G05968462Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  7. Remove the mounting bolts and the A/C compressor (A). Be careful not to damage the radiator fins when removing the A/C compressor.
    Fig 2: Identifying A/C Compressor And Mounting Bolts
    G05968463Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  8. Install the compressor in the reverse order of removal, and note these items:
    • Inspect the A/C lines for any signs of contamination.
    • If you're installing a new A/C compressor, you must calculate the amount of refrigerant oil to be removed from it (see A/C SERVICE TIPS AND PRECAUTIONS ). A new A/C compressor comes with a full charge of oil.
    • Replace the O-rings with new ones at each fitting, and apply a thin coat of refrigerant oil before, installing them. Be sure to use the correct O-rings for HFC-134a (R-134a) to avoid leakage.
    • Use only PAG refrigerant oil (DENSO ND-OIL 8) for HFC-134a A/C systems.
    • To avoid contamination, do not return the oil to the container once dispensed, and never mix it with other refrigerant oils.
    • Immediately after using the oil, reinstall the cap on the container, and seal it to avoid moisture absorption.
    • Do not spill the refrigerant oil on the vehicle; it may damage the paint; if the refrigerant oil contacts the paint, wash it off immediately.
    • Charge the system (see SYSTEM CHARGING ).
  9. Do the battery terminal reconnection procedure (see BATTERY TERMINAL DISCONNECTION AND RECONNECTION ).
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