Mesquite77

I've searched about for hours, and can get close (alternator, serpentine belt) but no actual DIY here or you tube on the compressor for 3.5L FWD 2008. If anyone has done this, and its so easy just do it with no guide needed, please let me know, I have done similar on other cars. Compressor suddenly seized, stalling car, but is fine if A/C off, not the best in Houston right now...

I'm wondering specifically if the radiator needs to be removed to get the compressor (or condensor) out, or if there is clearance without removing it.

Thanks.

2008 RX350 FWD 3.5L Made in Canada model

HtownBlue

There are 4 bracket bolts holding the AC compressor to block. There are two 10mm bolts holding the low pressure and Hugh pressure lines to compressor. Replace the o rings when you reattached them to new compressor. Remove serpentine belt first of course. Do this by loosening the alternator adjustment. I took mine out from the bottom if I recall.

as for the dryer

the only problem with the dyi method is to have the system evacuated and then charged. You cannot do this at home. You have to have an AC machine.

The dryer is part of the condenser which is behind radiator and not an easy job.

I would replace the compressor and then have the system charged.

And I live in Houston and it is indeed a flooded car wasteland.

Mesquite77

Thanks, I have the manifold gauges and such to deal with the R134a. I'll just dive in then, remove wheel splash guard, belt, then bottom splash guard, which sounds like all needed for compressor at least.

Appreciate your response, doesn't sound bad. Watching water come up to within 1 foot of the house Tuesday was bad, lol....

Mesquite77

Compressor is out, for anyone else attempting this, note that I did remove the radiator fan assembly as well, which after checking with alldatadiy is also the procedure there. Gives room, and since I'll be replacing the condenser/dryer as well, no lost effort. Videos you can find for replacing radiator apply, except no need to drain or actually replace the radiator, just same steps to remove everything else around it.

2008 RX350

Mesquite77

All back together. Couple of notes:

1) When removing and replacing the radiator fan assembly, be careful (or remove first) the coolant filler neck (the piece the radiator cap screws onto), because it is plastic and after 10 years I discovered it is brittle and one of the pipe nipples will break off, sigh...

2) To replace the bottom air snorkel, just remove the battery, no need to remove the airbox assembly like the service manual says.

3) While you have the bottom air dam/cover off, may as well replace the antifreeze.