Archived Air Cond kaput

[demodogg]

Had the AC recharged and soon it was blowing warm again. Seems there's a leak. So... ... . took it to a dealer (who has a Cummins mechanic) and they found the leak, apparently it's a bad evaporator and power switch. They say it's an all day project since the dash has to be removed. Total estimate: 1100. 00 :--)



Is this reasonable? I'm pretty competent mechanically but this is one project I really don't want to do myself. Your thoughts? Thanks!!

 

[Andy Redmond]

That's about right. Have them do the heater core too, because it will surely fail shortly after the dash has been in/out. You could easily spend $400 for a accumalator, evap core, heater core, orifice tube and oil from Mopar (their parts seem to fit in the blower box better).



I think the book time is about 6 hrs. to R&R the evap. core. Likely extra if your dashboard is cluttered with the goodies and gottahavits most of us have plastered in or outside of the truck.



I've done it many times and can do it in the book time, but usually not less. I'm pretty fussy that nothing gets broken, harnesses reattached, all screws and fasteners in the proper location etc.



They may also be adding for recharge and recovery time and note the (doubled) price per lb. for HFC 134A vs. last season.



If you will read the FSM and are comfortable with dashboard removal you might try it yourself.



At the minimum you will need a set of manifold gauges, vacuum pump and a/c discconnect tools to perform a satisfactory service.



Good luck

Andy

 

[Todd T]

I can get the evap for $110 dollars all day long. it takes about 2-3 hours to pull the dash, HVAC and reinstall everything pump her down and charge her up. 134 just quadrupled in the last few weeks but considering it only takes about a pound and a half that dont make up the $900 difference. I would have them replace the orifice tube line too. its about $40 from DC.



you better shop the independent garages first.