I have a dilemma, or I guess my wife does. She has a 2011 Explorer Limited and the AC hasn't been blowing too cold. She took it to the dealer and they said the lines running to the rear evaporator need to be replaced, they are leaking. The cost would be about $1700. Apparently part of the subframe has to be removed and there is a lot of labor which I have confirmed with others. They called today and said they can't get the nuts off the studs where they connect to the evaporator housing due to corrosion and that they would need to replace the housing. He said they tried everything but have to be careful so they don't damage the evaporator.

I called and talked to the service writer to see what's going on. I asked about putting a repair splice in. His first reaction was it's a band aid fix then he asked the tech where it was leaking and it's where is goes into the condenser housing, at a 90 degree bed so can't use a splice kit. So then I asked more about the frozen nuts/studs at the rear evaporator housing. I asked about penetrating oil and he said they tried. I suspect not left on too long. I suggested spraying down good and trying again in the morning and he said they would do that. After I thought about it, it seems they could use a small cutting wheel to cut the nut and remove from the stud. I've been working on my Excursions for years and reading about guys having similar issues and they always seem to find a way. I hate to spend another $1K because they can't get 2 nuts off!

I also asked about capping the line to the rear. He said it's not advised with a black car etc. I basically agree, the kids always want their AC on. Now hears the deal, the wife is going to buy a new Explorer very soon. She uses it for her work car and puts on a lot of miles. This one has over 200K on it now. So, we'll be keeping this car as mostly a backup. I have a 2005 Excursion that I need to have work done to and it's nice to have an extra car. We'd be looking at nearly $3K all said & done for rear AC in a car that won't be used much. If they can get the nuts free and just replace the lines, I'm okay with that, otherwise I may just have them cap the rear lines and deal with it later if we need to. Opinions welcome!

Thanks,
Steve

 

It's your money and your wife and kids.... You have to keep her happy and the kids safe.

I'd go buy the new Explorer now (if within your means) and park this one until you can tackle the thing yourself (if within your capabilities).

I'd hate to spend that much to get two nuts off, also.....