Automotive Air Conditioning Information Forum (Archives)

Mikemo on Wed April 13, 2011 11:35 AM

Year: 1988
Make: Toyota
Model: MR2 Supercharged
Engine Size: 1.6 L
Refrigerant Type: R12
Country of Origin: United States

Hello. I was hoping to get some input on proceding with an a/c repair. Any advice is appreciated.

I am in the process of fixing up an 88 Toyota MR2. I have no real history of the car for the last 23 years. The a/c had an R134 adapter fitting on the low side, but nothing on the high side. There was no pressure in the system. The compressor spins freely. I removed the R134 low side adapter and installed a new schrader valve. Connected my vacuum pump and let it rip. After an hour the vacuum seemed to hold when the valve was closed. I added R12 gas to the system to 60psi, started the car, but the compressor wouldn't kick on. I measured the clutch coil and it is open.

I would like to "fix it once" so I would like to figure out how to proceed. I plan on keeping the system R12.

I think that a rebuilt compressor is a good idea, since I have no idea as to the condition of this one. I will also replace the receiver/dryer.
I assume that replacing the expansion valve would be a good idea as well. Are there any other parts that you would suggest I replace just because of their age? Any suggestions on good rebuilt compressor?

The MR2 has long hard lines that run from the back of the car where the compressor is to the front for the condenser and evaporator. Should I flush these lines, along with the condenser and evaporator? Is Dura II a/c flush a good product?

Thanks in advance.
Mike M.

Cussboy on Wed April 13, 2011 12:08 PM

Quote
Originally posted by: Mikemo


I think that a rebuilt compressor is a good idea, since I have no idea as to the condition of this one. I will also replace the receiver/dryer. I assume that replacing the expansion valve would be a good idea as well. Are there any other parts that you would suggest I replace just because of their age? Any suggestions on good rebuilt compressor?

See board sponsor www.ackits.com for your parts, including quality rebuilt compressor. I've been running one of their evaporators and rebuilt compressor in my 1988 Mazda truck for quite a few years now, still R-12, as yours really should be. I've also been to their location (it in my city), and they seem to run a good organization.

mk378 on Wed April 13, 2011 7:46 PM

Finding a system with zero pressure you have to assume it leaks somewhere. Some leaks hold vacuum but leak under pressure. Also with some sort of conversion attempted, someone may have put PAG oil into it. If you're going to run R-12, it will need a complete flush to change the oil because PAG oil chemically reacts with R-12 and turns into sludge.

Rick-l on Thu April 14, 2011 2:05 PM

Quote
Originally posted by: Mikemo
. The a/c had an R134 adapter fitting on the low side, Mike M.


Since you don't know what oil is in there and how much would you need to flush the whole thing?

Mikemo on Thu April 14, 2011 3:35 PM

Thanks for the advice guys. I am going to completely flush the system and replace the expansion valve and accumulator. I'm not sure right now if I am going to get a rebuilt compressor or just try and replace the clutch on this one.

Either way, I'm going to need to replace all the oil. The chart says 8.5 ounces of mineral oil. I assume I should split that up across the components, but I don't know how much to put in each place.

BTW, I only got about 50ml out of the compressor. The oil was full of dye. Does that sound abnormally low? The oil looked clean. No debris in it.

Thanks again
Mike M.

TRB on Thu April 14, 2011 10:39 PM

$270.00 for a new import compressor. Better option then a rebuilt in my opinion.

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Mikemo on Fri April 15, 2011 7:37 AM

Quote
Originally posted by: TRB
$270.00 for a new import compressor. Better option then a rebuilt in my opinion.

Where do I find a new compressor for $270?
I also need the clutch assembly as this is what is bad on my current compressor.
Just to be clear, the Supercharged MR2 has a different compressor and clutch than the regular MR2. The supercharged model has a rotation sensor built in and also has a 5 groove pulley. The regular MR2 has no sensor and a 4 groove pulley.

Thanks
Mike M.

TRB on Fri April 15, 2011 9:37 AM

Special order With Sensor.

We offer it.



-------------------------

When considering your next auto A/C purchase, please consider the site that supports you: ACkits.com
Contact: ACKits.com

Mikemo on Fri April 15, 2011 10:50 PM

Apparently not. I just got an email to the contrary.
Thanks anyway. I guess I'm stuck with a rebuild.
Regards,
Mike M.

TRB on Fri April 15, 2011 11:05 PM

I know rob was waiting on a call back today from the supplier. Again these are special order so they may or may not have them available. I double check Monday to be sure all options have been resourced.

-------------------------

When considering your next auto A/C purchase, please consider the site that supports you: ACkits.com
Contact: ACKits.com

Mikemo on Mon April 18, 2011 7:39 AM

Excellent. I'll wait for your email before I purchase anything.
Regards,
Mike M.

TRB on Mon April 18, 2011 9:51 PM

Did Rob follow up today. Not sure if he found a new one or not. I mentioned this thread to this morning.


-------------------------

When considering your next auto A/C purchase, please consider the site that supports you: ACkits.com
Contact: ACKits.com