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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. Recover the refrigerant with a recovery/recycling/charging station (see REFRIGERANT RECOVERY  ).
  3. Remove the A/C condenser fan shroud assembly (see FAN, FAN MOTOR, AND SHROUD REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION ).
    NOTE: To avoid damage to the radiator, cover it with cardboard until reinstalling the fan.
  4. Remove 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. Remove the O-rings (D). Plug or cap the lines immediately after disconnecting them to avoid moisture and dust contamination.
    Fig 1: A/C Compressor Clutch Connector, Suction Hose, Discharge Hose And O-Rings With Torque Specifications
    G08071100Courtesy 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
    G08071101Courtesy 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.
    • Before installing a new A/C compressor, adjust the A/C compressor oil level (see A/C REFRIGERANT OIL REPLACEMENT  ).
    • 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 A/C compressors 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  ).
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