Tags: auto tips
In hot summer weather, most drivers can only save air conditioning. The most common cause of failure is the air conditioning compressor.. It is he who lends himself to the highest loads. Structurally, the compressor is more complex than other parts of the climate system. However, this does not mean at all that it cannot be repaired independently.
The principle of operation of the compressor
The main function of this important element is to compress the refrigerant with its subsequent transformation into a liquid state for unhindered circulation through the climate system.
Most modern cars fitted with reciprocating compressors. They are equipped with several pistons, which are driven by a "pumping washer" mounted on the shaft of a regular supercharger. It moves in the axial direction, compressing freon to the required state.
Compressor components are in constant friction, so they need lubrication. It is added directly to the refrigerant. The type of oil depends on the brand of freon. Mineral grease is suitable for the R12 brand, while polyalkylene-glycol oil is added to the R134a freon.
Signs of a malfunctioning air conditioning compressor
About compressor failure will tell you a number of “symptoms” that every driver faced sooner or later:
- continuous monotonous noise from the climate system. It can be heard even when the air conditioner is turned off. At the time of turning on the device, the nature of the noise may change, it becomes louder. This symptom indicates the wear of the bearing located on the pulley;
- air conditioner does not start - most likely, the electromagnetic clutch has failed;
- moisture on the floor mats under the dashboard – refrigerant leak. This affects the performance of the entire climate system.
If any of these signs are found, you must stop using the air conditioner until the breakdown is repaired.
Self-repair of major breakdowns
Air Conditioning Compressor Repair - the service is not cheap, and therefore more and more car owners decide to look for the cause of the breakdown and fix it with their own hands.
The procedure for repair work depends on the type of breakdown:
- if, after disassembling the climate system, damage to the compressor housing was found, it will need to be welded;
- in case of wear of oil seals and gaskets, before replacing them, it is necessary to clean the system of refrigerant and remove the compressor from the car;
- to replace the pulley bearing, the compressor must also be removed. Only then can the bearing be dismantled, and a new one pressed in instead;
- You can repair the electromagnetic clutch by replacing the pressure plate, pulley or burnt coil. It depends on what part was worn out.
If during the inspection a breakdown of the compressor piston group was found, it is better to entrust its replacement to professionals. This part of the compressor requires a precise fit that requires special equipment.
Fault Prevention
The operation of the climate system, in particular the air conditioning compressor, can be extended. To do this, it is enough to comply with the basic requirements for the safe operation of the unit - regular flushing and relubrication of all elements, constant monitoring of the operation of the vehicle's electrical system.
The driver should not ignore the need for periodic diagnostics of the system. It will allow you to quickly identify faults and eliminate them, while maintaining the performance of other elements.
