Originally Posted By: exranger06
First pull out the orifice tube. If it has metal shavings on it, you need to flush out (or replace) the evaporator and all the lines, and REPLACE the condenser, accumulator/drier, and orifice tube in addition to the compressor. If you don't do that, you'll destroy the new compressor and you'll be right back at square one. Usually when these compressors go, they basically grind themselves up inside and spew metal shavings and junk throughout the whole system, so flushing out/replacing everything is necessary.
If you want to save some money, you should be able to find a good, low mileage compressor from a junkyard. Ford used those compressors in a LOT of different vehicles, including a lot of newer models. I got one with only 49k miles on it for about $80 including shipping off eBay.
I agree, before you do anything start with this.
Although, I don't like the idea of using a junkyard compressor. As I tried that once, and it lasted about 2 weeks before I had to start the whole process over.
Check ebay for rebuilt compressor kits. I'm running one and so far so good.
I had a shop vacuum and charge the system, cost about $125.