Just spent my grandkid's inheritance on a new engine for my '86 F150 and now the ac has quit. The day before it failed, it was really drawing power from the main engine and there was an audible change in the sounds from under the hood, so I guess the compressor was binding and has died. Is it feasible to fit a 'part out'?, is it reasonably simple?, anybody got one?

 

well badeep its not hard to change the commpressor out it can be done with hand tools but u have to have the freon in the system drained first before u can do it . then it can be changed . then the freon can be put back in but your system is r 12 an its not cheap to get it an the new 134 a change over kit isnt cheap either .maybe your best bet is to call ac shops to see what it would cost to have it done .

 

Changing over to 134 isn't really that bad if everything else in the system is OK. Just did it on my 86. Around here, Car quest was by far the cheapest on cans of 134, even beating wal-mart. I paid $3.18 a can. Once you get a compressor, and install it, Pull the orifice tube, replace with a red one, from a later model (92-96), install the adaptor kit, vacuum down for about 30 mins., and re-fill with 134(don't forget oil charge). BTW, although most people don't recommend junkyard compressors, I've had very good luck with them myself. I must say as a disclaimer that there's a yard here in Nashville(4 Lane Salvage) that does a pretty good job of testing/evaluating them before selling. I've heard so many horror stories about some of the rebuilt units being sold at some of the parts strores that I'd rather buy the cheaper salvage yard unit and take my chances. You could, however, if you aren't on as tight of a budget as me, cough up for a new one. Also, if you find that your old one has disintegrated, you'd probably be well advised to flush out that system too while it's apart. As far as tools(vacuum pump, manifold) you can probably find a place to rent or borrow them. Don't skimp on vacuuming down the system. It's very important to make sure there's no moisture in there.

 

Okay guys, thanks for the wealth of experience offered. The junk yards are no help, I guess rocking horse sh.. is easier to find in Az, than a recovered AC compressor. couldn't even find one to salvage the valves. Patience is not an option, I gotta get this truck back on the road.......looks like a $$$$$$$$$new$$$$$ system.........geez louise, when does it stop? I'm beginning to see why you guys always have more than one truck!