So, the guy who owned my car before me ripped out essentially all the HVAC system. I've gathered the blower motor housing, fan, A/C compressor, condesor etc.. all the big parts. This is what I'm looking at currently: What all do I need to check/run before putting the HVAC system back together? Vacuum lines, vent hoses, any doors or hinges etc that aren't on the forementioned parts. This is the assembly I bought, as far as I can tell it's complete Also is there a way to check if my heater core is still good? or should I just replace it while everything is ripped this far apart to be on the safe side.
You have it apart now, change the heater core now !!! You will save yourself a lot of headaches doing it now. :TU: While you are there, repaint those blue valve covers to Buick Red :Brow: :Brow: .
Also, replace your blower motor now. those are a huge pain to change later. All the vacuum hoses and doors/switches are inside under the dash.
Alright, heater core and blower motor are on the list. I don't like red. I'm actually the one that painted them blue. Going to do the exterior blue as well. So as far as everything in the engine bay is concerned, after I replace those two parts it should be good to bolt on, yes?
Pull the evaporator core and check it for corrosion. Have it pressure tested or test it yourself if you have an air compressor. ~60psi and a bucket of soapy water. (Test or replace the expansion valve while you have it apart. Its the valve on the lower evap pipe.) Like the heater core and blower motor, you don't want to get it all buttoned up then discover you have a leak. The evap is pretty pricy, about $300 I believe, so I wouldn't just replace it offhand. Also, flush the evaporator and condenser with solvent and check for internal corrosion. They can look perfect outside and be badly corroded on the inside. Cap the hose fittings until final assembly, spiders love to nest in those small places. It may be a while before you get there, but: - Replace the compressor shaft seal with a modern, double lip neoprene seal. -Have your POA valve tested and calibrated for the refrigerant you plan to use. Good Luck
How do I test the expansion valve? None of the auto parts stores around here have them in stock and I'm hoping to get it in this week.
While blowing air through the valve, dip the sensing tube: -in ice water-It should close -in hot water-It should open Be careful not to damage the capillary tube and make sure to firmly reattach it to the correct spot (on the suction pipe or in the evaporator fins). I believe it is clamped to the suction pipe on your car. Basically, put it back where you found it. Good luck.
