Aircon compressors?

[VPRob]

Hi All,
I have a new noise under the hood which I believe is coming from the aircon compressor. Visiting a mech on Wednesday to give him a listen and see what I can learn. I've had a quick look on ebay and found new compressors (for V6) for $455. Don't know if they're any good but say they have a 5 year warranty. What are the chances of scoring a used one and what's involved in recon. I'm interested in suggestions, advice experience etc. Thanks in advance and cheers.

 

[losh1971]

You can just replace the clutch and or the bearing on the comp Rob. The factory Sanden units are by far the best on these old cars.
I assume it's still working but making the typical bearing whine?

 

[MikeC]

If you have a mechanics stethoscope have a listen and try to isolate the noise. If a cheap compressor fails later , the compressor component cost is only part of the cost of the replacement, you also have labour and a vac out/regas. I replaced mine last year with a Sanden.

 

[VPRob]

Thanks guys. Yes it is still pumping cold air. She's at the mech's now confirming the diagnosis so I should know more later today. Good to know that replacing the clutch and bearing is an option. Thanks Losh.

 

[VPRob]

Well my amateur mechanic skills were shown up again. Turns out it's the power steering pump making all the noise.

 

[losh1971]

In that case buy a rebuilt Saganaw don't mess with anything aftermarket.

 

[MikeC]

In that case buy a rebuilt Saganaw don't mess with anything aftermarket.

Yep, and don't forget the standard and variable ratio pumps are different. I also changed the fluid after a short run with the new pump.

I got my rebuilt pump from Active Power Steering-phone 02 9565 2600

 

[VPRob]

Is Saganaw the original manufacture?
At this stage I’m getting a locally remanufactured for $190 but I don’t know if it’s a Saganaw. I did see after market replacements for a lower price including one that offered a 5 year warranty from within Aus but my mechanics said they would fit it but any problems that emerged would be my problem to deal with so I stuck with the local product they are sourcing.

 

[losh1971]

Saginaw is original.

 

[91SS]

I recently installed a Davies Craig cooler on my original Saginaw. $63 bucks it's a winner smoother quieter and the small leak from front seal gone.