1999 Volkswagen Beetle Replacing A/C Compressor

1999 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE

127,000 MILES • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL

RSONTAG

MEMBER
1 POST

My compressor recently stopped working. I Replaced the compressor, dryer and expansion valve as recommended by my local Auto Parts distributor. After removing the parts, I flushed and blew out system. I pulled a 2 hr vaccum after installing the new parts. When I stated charging the system, before getting a full 16oz. can of R134A in the pressure went up to 80+ lbs. Did I miss something. Is there an orifice on it somewhere that I need to change?

Jul 16, 2008 at 1:54 PM

KHLOW2008

✓ASE Certified Mechanic
41,814 POSTS

Hi Rsontag,

Did you start the car and turn the AC on while charging?

80 psi is at low side ? What is the pressure of high side?

Jul 18, 2008 at 12:54 AM

BRAUNS BUTCHER BLOCK

MEMBER
7 POSTS

what did you find out about this

Jun 17, 2012 at 8:31 PM

VWSCOTT

MEMBER
66 POSTS

expansion valve at the firewall. if the compressor wore out it's probably full of debris. also if you charge by small cans the pressure can get high if you turn the can over, you're putting it in as a liquid. you should only shake the can in an upright possition... while the car is running.

Jul 7, 2012 at 12:59 AM

RIVERMIKERAT

✓ASE Certified Mechanic
6,110 POSTS

Rsontag, did you ever figure this out? Blowing the system out with contaminated compressed air can introduce contaminants into the system, but, like vwscott said, you should never turn the small can over.

Jul 29, 2012 at 6:08 PM

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