2003 Chevrolet S-10 A/C compressor

AKHEAT

MEMBER
2003 CHEVROLET S-10
4.3L
V6
4WD
AUTOMATIC
112,713 MILES

I'm assuming that I have no refrigerant because there is no cool air coming out, and the clutch in front is failing.
Assuming, that there is no refrigerant, can I replace the a/c compressor without charging it with refrigerant, and run my vehicle? I'm only asking because they want anywhere from $700. To $1000. To replace it. I live in Alaska, and I don't run the a/c at all.

6 Replies

WRENCHTECH

MECHANIC
20,761 POSTS

Yes, you can do that. If you ever do want it to work though, you will have to do a lot more that just hang an compressor to prevent it from failing again.

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Wednesday, August 6th, 2014 AT 3:37 PM

AKHEAT

MEMBER
4 POSTS

I'm just clarifying, when you say "If you ever do want it to work though". Are you talking about having a/c in my truck? I just need to be able to drive my vehicle back and forth to work. I don't need a/c.
I know that there is a lot more to replacing and getting the a/c back in order, but for now I can afford the new compressor, I just can't afford the labor cost.
The compressor is just under $300. And they want $700. To $1000. I can't do that right now. Thanks

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Wednesday, August 6th, 2014 AT 4:21 PM

WRENCHTECH

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That extra money can't be for labor. It has to be for other components. That compressor can be installed in about 15 minutes. It's a very easy one.

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Wednesday, August 6th, 2014 AT 4:25 PM

AKHEAT

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I drove into this one repair shop, gave him my info and he went on his computer. I was just looking for a cost to repair ($789.00), never asked any questions really. He said the cost was in the parts.

Another place I called and gave them the info, and they quoted me $1000.

I went online to the local Auto parts store, $301.99 compressor, 25.99 accumulator. Hoses, nuts fittings in good condition.

Can I drive my truck daily, if I replace the compressor and accumulator? Right now it's making a loud scraping sound and the clutch is loose. That missing piece in the picture, went through my hood. Thanks.

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Wednesday, August 6th, 2014 AT 4:55 PM

WRENCHTECH

MECHANIC
20,761 POSTS

No point in replacing the accumulator of the system is not going to be active. The whole system is contaminated so all you're doing is installing a $300 pulley for the belt.