AC compressor took a crap. Gonna replace the compressor and drier then flush the whole system for a r134a conversion. Is the condenser a serpentine or parallel design? I can't quite tell from looking at it thru the front end. If its a parallel design, would someone know of a good new replacement? Any "watch out fors" or tips for this project is always appreciated.

 

You're making it too difficult. You probably need a Sanden SD 708.

There are two different manifolds for 2nd Gen Sandens. Single bolt and double bolt, and easily swap-able. Just compare to yours and your fine. rx7.com has a fantastic offer for new (not rebuilt) 708's.

 

I have a replacement compressor. What I need to know is what type of condenser (AC radiator in front of the coolant radiator) I have. The system needs to be flushed and I was asking about design. A parallel design is nearly impossible to flush. Because I'm converting to r134a, the system must be 100 percent flushed.

 

It is serpentine, and is going to ROYALY suck with r134a.

Can i make a suggestion?

r152a baby!

https://www.rx7club.com/1st-gen-arch...gerant-997918/

And yes, it does apply to our second gen rx7's!

 

Thank you jjwalker. I will keep this in mind and look more into 152a as I am still in the planning mode. I'll deal with the summer if it means getting it done once. I have thought of adding a cooling fan to the condenser because of the properties of r134a. Thank you. Anybody else got some good stuff to share on this topic?

 

We had an a/c shop in Austin do the conversion to 134a without changing any parts. and it works fantastically. And has for four years now of drought and summers with 90+ days over 100.

Keep in mind most a/c systems are built from off the shelf components and look to cool a much larger space than an FC's interior especially a vert's interior.

Good luck with your project.

 

Love the R152a plan. I will run in this dirrection. As far as R134a it seems if the job was done without shortcuts, the outcome is satisfactory.

Would anyone know if replacing the expansion valve is necessary?

 

Sorry, should have added some more info. Refrigerant leaked from behind compressor over time. Compressor is not locked up and system has never been opened. Compressor clutch can still be activated manually. Pressure switch is testing open. Of course this will change after charging.

So in this scenario, does the expansion valve need to be replaced? Also does it restrict the flushing process? Is it a part to remove, clean, flush evaporator and re install?

 

Here is the original thread that jjwalker posted above:

https://www.rx7club.com/2nd-generati...gerant-964688/

This thread has some detail regarding replacement condensers.

You do not need to change the expansion valve.

You should open the evaporator core up and remove 30 years of accumulated debris.

My core was half full of leaves, sticks and assorted crap. It also had bacterial slime growing over the surface of the coils. I'm surprised it worked so well for the last 10 years i've owned the car. You can clean the slime out using hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle after you clean the debris out.

Good Luck.

 

Now thats why I love forums. Knew somebody has already done this. I remember my AC smelling a little different. Your probably right about the slime. I will add this to the checklist. Further tips are appreciated. I will post results as well. Thank you.