Aircon Compressor replace (VT)

[Valhalla]

Anyone replaced an aircon compressor on there VT? I'm wanting to know any issues or probs you had, or is it better to pay someone to do it?

[scvs6]

Hey guys, I know this is an old thread, but I thought I may as well use this instead of starting a new one.

I need to replace the A/C Compressor on my WH Statesman. I have already bought the new compressor (from Holden) and have had the A/C gas taken out. Now is it just a matter of changing the compressors over and putting the belt back on, and then driving it to the A/C place to get it re-gased? Or can I damage the new compressor by running it with no gas in it? Is there some sort of oil that needs to go in it as well? I don't want to fit the new A/C compressor, they drive the car down to the workshop only to find out I have destroyed it. It's a 110km/1h:20min drive (thats how long it will be running without A/C gas).

Thanks for any help, and sorry about digging up an old thread. At least you can tell I actually used the search function

[acarmody]

The new compressor likely has oil in it. Also the compressor internals won't do anything unless the clutch is engaged (disengaged?).

If your really worried just unplug the connector that goes to the compressor, no power, so it won't start. Just make sure to tuck the wiring behind something, otherwise it will rub against the belt and wear through the insulation.

[scvs6]

The new compressor likely has oil in it. Also the compressor internals won't do anything unless the clutch is engaged (disengaged?).

If your really worried just unplug the connector that goes to the compressor, no power, so it won't start. Just make sure to tuck the wiring behind something, otherwise it will rub against the belt and wear through the insulation.

Ok thanks mate, so if I just leave it unplugged, it will just spin freely? I suppose the other thing would be to just turn the climate control off so that it doens't engage/disengage.

Is there any way of checking if there is oil in it, or if its a sealed unit, then it will definitely have oil in it.

[acarmody]

If its a Genuine Delphi, im 99% sure it will have oil in it. Mine did, but I got mine off eBay.

[accentstencil]

Without gas in the system the compressor clutch won't engage even if you turn it on accidentally. The pulley will obviously be turning but the actual compressor won't be.

[VTS5]

Just install it,you can only damage it if you throw it under a train :-) None pressurized system wont work,so you are safe to drive it.Also insist on R134a not the cheap one.