I have a 2003 Mountaineer, the compressor just took a dump so I'm replacing it along with the expansion valve. Does anything else need to be replaced just incase the old compressor sent parts throughout the system. The expansion valve looks like it has a filter on it, so I assume that it's supposed to catch parts of the compressor when it fails. I just don't want to trash the new one because I left crap in the lines.

 

Replace the receiver/dryer as well and flush the system throughly.

 

Thanks, I've heard this from multiple people now. I guess I'll add it to the list.

 

I had to replace the compressor on my 98 Explorer last year. My A/C friend and I did it. Every auto parts store in town wanted to sell me an orifice tube just to get a warranty on the compressor. I finally went to an out of the way parts store that just sold me comp. with a warranty. I never replaced the dryer or orifice tube.

Long story short, you shouldn't have to replace the dryer or orifince tube if the compressor didn't self-destruct.

 

Cool. I guess I'll have to tear it apart and see how it looks.
The way I see it, it's cheap insurance though. $40 for a drier or maybe another 400 for another compressor in a few weeks.

 

If the compressor didn't blow up, no, you don't have to replace the accumulator or orifice tube, but you should do it anyways. An orifice tube is like ten bucks and depending on where you shop, an accumulator is $40-50, give or take.

 

OK, I think I'm in the same boat here. My compressor *was* cycling constantly and after an attempt to recharge over the weekend, it's not doing anything now. I have a 1999 F-150, 4.6, basic work truck.

"depending on where you shop for parts..." where should I go for what I need? Online retailer or local parts shop? I have Napa, Auto Zone, Kragen Auto Parts in my area.

Though the system appears to have a leak in the low-side valve, and the compressor isn't working, I think the other parts should be OK. When it was charged it was blowing cold air in the past. I have replaced the clutch control switch a year ago. I will discharge the system, replace the seals, orofice tube, compressor, dryer, then recharge?

I'm going to DIY cuz I like getting my hands dirty now and then, or am I just a masochist, I don't remember.