Since the A/C blew up, the compressor started making noises even when it was off. I was going to wait until next year, but now something needed to be done. So I ordered up the LMR A/C conversion kit. It comes with everything except the evaporator. Since the radiator had to be drained, I figured it would be a good time to install the SVE silicon hose kit I had sitting around waiting for a reason to get installed.
Things went pretty smooth during the install. Almost went without a hitch. But, that never happens to me.
First glitch - The instructions for the kit say the compressor is shipped dry and you should put 10oz of oil in the system. The compressor has a sticker on it that says it shipped with 3oz of oil in it. Yep, there is oil in there. I sent an email to LMR on Friday asking for advice, but no response. So, I added 7oz of new oil and installed the system. On Monday I got a response that said I should've poured the oil out and added 10oz of new oil. Doh. Too late.
Second glitch - Some of the smaller silicon hoses shipped too long. I had to test fit and trim them to get everything in right. The 4 smaller hoses are installed in tight spots. Just a 1/4" here and maybe a 1/2" there and it all fit fine. But, made the install time double what it would've taken to install a set of stockers. Especially since they are installed essentially as pairs of hoses and sometimes had to remove both hoses to trim the one that needed it.
So, I wound up here.
Pretty nice. But am I going to get things to work ...
Mike's finger says no.
Pulled a vacuum and left it sit. All was good.
Stuck a can on, purged the line, and started the car. Opened the valve and the car starts sputtering. Crap. I don't know what I did, maybe damaged a vacuum line? (the car still isn't idling right). So, I had to get in the car and keep it running while trying to charge the system. Not ideal.
System says 24oz of freon. So, first 12oz can goes in. I switch cans, get back in and run the car some more. Suddenly, a tea kettle sound. Jump out and the pressure release valve on the compressor is spitting out refrigerant and oil. Quick look at the gauges and the high-side meter looks pegged, then the car stalls.
So, I gave up. Unhooked everything and will take the car to a trusted mechanic to have the system looked at. @#$%!!!!!
The next few nights were taken up with kids activities, band rehersals and other family activities. Finally got back out there to clean up. We've had a mouse for about a month now. Got two with the snap traps, but seems like one is on to us. Well ...
First time I've ever thought I was going to throw up while pouring used coolant into a transport container. That is some nasty smell of death there.