1998 Honda Civic AC

130,000 MILES • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
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RIKSTIR
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  • 1 POST
My AC compressor has failed. I'm going to replace it and the dryer. Do I need to replace the condenser or the evaporator as well?
Feb 8, 2008 at 8:36 AM
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MERLIN2021
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 17,250 POSTS
Depends what failed, clutch? or did the compressor have catastrophic metal shavings type failure? In the second example, you need to remove all debris, a real good flush, and a pankack filter installed in the line for an hour while you run the new system might be OK...then remove the filter and recharge...
Feb 10, 2008 at 12:30 AM
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MERLIN2021
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 17,250 POSTS
From: rikstir
To: merlin2021
Posted: Sun Feb 10, 2008 9:52 am
Subject: AC failure
The compressor seized. The clutch seemed to engage and disengage properly.

So if the system has a filter on it to remove any debris I shouldn't have to replace the the evaporator or the condenser?
To answer your PM: If your system has a filter on it you would be real lucky? The filter is what YOU must put in the line after flushing and before filling with new R134a If no filter was on the system, you must replace these other parts, or metal shavings may ruin a new compressor!
Feb 10, 2008 at 1:10 AM
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