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A/C Compressor Replacement

NOTE: Do not install the A/C compressor into a system unless you are completely sure that the system is free of contamination. Installing the A/C compressor into a contaminated system can result in premature A/C compressor failure.
  1. If the A/C compressor is marginally operable, run the engine at idle speed, and let the air conditioning work for a few minutes, then shut the engine off.
  2. Do the battery terminal disconnection procedure (see BATTERY TERMINAL DISCONNECTION AND RECONNECTION ).
  3. Recover the refrigerant with a recovery/recycling/charging station (see REFRIGERANT RECOVERY  ).
  4. Remove the engine cover (see IGNITION COIL AND SPARK PLUG REMOVAL/INSTALLATION ), and the alternator (see ALTERNATOR REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION ).
  5. Disconnect the A/C compressor clutch connector (A). Remove the bolts and the nut, then disconnect the suction hose (B) and the discharge hose (C) from the A/C compressor. Plug or cap the lines immediately after disconnecting them to avoid moisture and dust contamination.
    Fig 1: Disconnecting A/C Compressor Clutch Connector With Torque Specifications
    G07354756Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  6. Remove the mounting bolts and the A/C compressor (A). Be careful not to damage the radiator fins when removing the A/C compressor.
    Fig 2: Removing Mounting Bolts And A/C Compressor With Torque Specifications
    G07354757Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  7. Install the A/C compressor in the reverse order of removal, and note these items:
    • Inspect the A/C lines for any signs of contamination. Purge the system if necessary before installing the A/C compressor.
    • If you're installing a new A/C compressor, you must calculate the amount of refrigerant oil to be removed from it (see A/C REFRIGERANT OIL REPLACEMENT  ). A new A/C compressor comes with a full charge of oil.
    • Replace the O-rings with new ones at each fitting, and apply a thin coat of refrigerant oil before installing them. Be sure to use the correct O-rings for HFC-134a (R-134a) to avoid leakage.
    • Use only refrigerant oil (DENSO ND-OIL 8) for HFC-134a DENSO piston type A/C compressor only.
    • To avoid contamination, do not return the oil to the container once dispensed, and never mix it with other refrigerant oils.
    • Immediately after using the oil, reinstall the cap on the container, and seal it to avoid moisture absorption.
    • Do not spill the refrigerant oil on the vehicle; it may damage the paint; if the refrigerant oil contacts the paint, wash it off immediately.
    • Be careful not to damage the radiator fins when installing the A/C compressor and the A/C condenser fan shroud.
    • Charge the system (see SYSTEM CHARGING  ).
  8. Do the battery terminal reconnection procedure (see BATTERY TERMINAL DISCONNECTION AND RECONNECTION ).
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