AC Compressor - How much Oil

1997 PONTIAC GRAND AM
140,000 MILES • 3.1L • V6 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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B767_400
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  • 36 POSTS
Hi,

Just need to replace my AC Compressor.
I orderred a new one which is Pre-Filled with the right amount of oil.... but
Just to be sure, how much oil should be in the AC Compressor and the biggest question, how much oil in the complete system.
There should also be oil in the condensor, drier,, ...

Thanks
Aug 11, 2025 at 3:50 PM
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STEVE W.
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 15,122 POSTS
The attached oil table shows the amounts. However if you only are replacing the compressor and not flushing the system or blowing out all the oil you only need to worry about the compressor. For that you drain the old compressor and measure what comes out. Then discard it. If you get under 2oz, you add in 2 oz. Over 2oz, you add back in the same amount of new oil that you measured. Once you add the oil, tip the compressor up so it sets on the clutch and leave it like that for a few minutes before you install it. That is to ensure that the front seal has oil on it before you run the compressor.
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Aug 11, 2025 at 6:57 PM