Year: 1992
Make: BMW
Model: 318i
Engine Size: 4 cyl
Refrigerant Type: R134a
Ambient Temp: 88
Pressure Low: 100
Pressure High: 100
First time working on an AC system....
When I bought the car, all I knew was that the AC (original R-12) didn't work. The magnetic clutch on the compressor was broken. I replaced the compressor with a new (not used) one, flushed the lines, changed the o-rings, new dryer, vacuumed for 90 minutes, let it hold for 90 minutes, then started to fill.
At some point I heard the compressor kick on. Vent temp went from 90 to 80. Then things went bad. I don't know when but I realized that the compressor wasn't running. Pressures after one and a partial can were 100/100. Vent temp climbed back to 90. I stopped.
What's my strategy now? Please tell me I didn't kill the new compressor somehow. Should I vacuum again and start over or press on, or give up and take it to an expert?
Edited: Fri June 08, 2012 at 7:29 AM by rojeho
Did you add oil to the compressor? If you have enough refrigerant in the system you might need to trace down a wiring issue.
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yes there was oil in the compressor.
Is a little over a can "enough" or should I keep adding? At 100PSI, I didn't know if I should keep going or if that was already a sign that this wasn't going well.
I think I heard that some BMWs will disable the compressor if they detect a low pressure condition with the compressor running. It may be that the compressor kicked in and drew the low side below the happy place as it started to charge so the PCM has disabled it. I think the cure is to disconnect the battery for 5 minutes to reset the codes and continue the charge. However, it's nothing I am personally experienced with, so I could be completely wrong.
Next question: does that car have a button that has to be pushed to turn on the AC? Maybe there's a bad contact in the switch?
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I've saved hundreds on service by spending thousands on tools.
Just to close this out, there was a blown fuse. Replaced that and everything became normal. Thanks for the help.
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