My AC Compressor locked up, causing the serpentine belt to break. I was able to remove the compressor (without removing the radiator!) but now I'm left with the decision on what compressor to buy - Rockauto, eBay, Autozone, etc. The dealership is a no-no as their prices are out of reach. Question - regardless which compressor I choose (TSB19C), does anybody know how much PAG oil I should add? I can't base measurements on the old compressor because the oil leaked out when it seized up.
BTW, this is on a 2012 RX350.
Thanks,
Tim

 

Do you have the other equipment required to purge, evacuate, test and charge the system etc?

Napa parts are usually higher quality than Auto Zone, Advance Auto. Rock Auto has Denso compressors and states they are pre-oiled. Denso is OEM.
https://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo...t=6628&jsn=943

This link may be helpful as the Highlander is a mechanical twin and takes the same compressor as does the Sienna. There are probably other videos on youtube.

https://www.toyotanation.com/threads...#post-14462378

 

If you plan to DIY, read the conditions of warranty on replacement part. [Most require replacing some and clearing out old stuff]. You can wing it, but a proper job requires flush followed by purge. Then proper amount of oil needs to be introduced in certain specified locations. Then evacuate and test for leaks [with all the work that has been put in, there may be a loose connection]. Then a measured fill of refrigerant. Burns from improper handling and careless mistakes [not priming all tubes/piping] are a possibility. [worst case blinding]. Weigh all the pros and cons before you undertake the job or farm it out.

If you do it yourself, invest in better parts [OEM after market]. No sense in going for the cheapest or un-verified source.

Salim

 

Dear Clutchless,

I don't have any of the equipment to evac, purge, etc. My intentions are to install a new compressor and then take it to a mechanic to perform the proper vacuum/refill process.
I'm pretty sure the new compressor won't come with the proper amount of PAG oil and so that's my concern at this point.

Thanks,
Tim

 

Well to be safe either tow it to the mechanic after you install the compressor, or just let him install it. However, most mechanics will not let you bring in your own part for something like a compressor and may not warranty their work. You want to shop around for an independent to complete this project.

 

Thanks again Clutchless for the advice. One more thing, is it necessary to replace the Expansion valve when replacing the compressor?

 

I have no idea regarding the expansion valve. This is not something I ever wanted to attempt or research.
My A/C service skills begin and end at charging the system with one of those easy kits and hosing off the coils in front of the radiator.
I'm sure you can find a youtube instructional video, but that is best asked of the shop you find that will agree to help out.

 

Replacing expansion valve is huge job, requring removing the entire dash. Replace the condensor, and high prssure lines if there is any compessor debri in the dryer. On mine, flushed the low pressure line and evaporator, new condesor, which includes dryer, and all was well with the new compressor.

 

Typically the dryer is replaced [must if the air has infiltrated in the system], but the system is flushed.

Salim

 

Curious did you go through the bottom to pull the compressor? I'm about to tackle this job myself.

 

Remove fan shroud with fans out from top, compressor comes out bottom, may have to unbolt some of the brackets that hold the trans cooler lines to make a bit of room for wrenching and drop. Also some of the a/c line support brackets to let them move a bit. Pretty sure there are youtubes.

 

Yes, I had to pull the compressor from the bottom. I didn't remove the bumper (as per the Hanes manual) nor the the radiator. However, I needed to trim off one of the plastic braces for the electric fan in order for me to completely slide out the compressor. It is doable, just take your time.

 

How long should it take a AC specialist to change the ac compressor, evacuate, test and charge the system ?



2008 Lexus LS 460L Black and tan inside

 

How long does it take to do all

 

Are your questions related to RX third gen or for LS? The components may be same if shared across models but access to parts will most likely be very different. Ask one of the mods to move your post or simply restart in the appropriate forum.

In USA shops use a published "time of labor" for each service item ... change and refill refrigerant. That time of labor is then used by all shops in USA to bill the customer [labor rate X hours + parts & material + disposal fees]. You can call Lexus/Toyota in your area and ask the service provider for the time of labor. Shade tree mechanics simply give you number.

If you are willing to accept an estimate .. I would say 5-6 hrs. Keep in mind there is a hold and test in-between. Not every time the work would be flawless and the mechanic has to redo the work. That lost time is also factored in.

Salim