PatHenry

This is a follow-up to my earlier thread: https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f2/c-q...novice-245505/
The earlier thread has 4 or 5 pages so I figure it's easier to get right to the questions at hand. I have zero experience working with A/C systems, but I'd like to get my 95's system working if I can do so without spending a lot of money and hopefully learn more about A/C systems in general.

So I ordered a new expansion valve, Receiver/Dryer and o-ring set for my 95 XJ with the factory R134a system. I've verified my compressor kicks on when jumped, so I'm working under the assumption that the compressor is OK until it proves otherwise. My system is completely depleted of refrigerant.

My plan is to replace the o-rings, valve and R/D and then proceed to checking that the system will hold vacuum. (See previous thread)

Question 1: Disconnecting the threaded type fittings - if these give me trouble due to age or corrosion, can I use penetrants (PB Blaster, etc.) and/or heat on the lines?
Question 2: I started unscrewing one of the caps on the new R/D and was surprised that it started making a sound (like air movement hissing). I immediately tightened the cap back up and thinking about it figured that it must be vacuumed or something like that from the factory. Is that the case?
Question 3: I'm assuming that removing and replacing the parts is pretty straightforward, undo the lines, replace o-rings wherever there is an existing one and put it back together. Is this the case or is there something I'm missing? The FSM was pretty vague - remove line, attach line, etc.

Thanks!

Rambler65

1. You can feel free to use penetrating oil. I would not use heat on the fittings since you can damage the rubber hose or other components. (Unless of course you plan to replace the affected parts anyway.)

2. A new receiver-drier is vacuum sealed to keep moisture out. It should only be exposed to atmosphere for as short a time as possible while installing.

3. It should be straightforward. I like to use Nylog on the o-rings and seals, it helps prevent leaks. Failing that, use PAG oil on them.

PatHenry

Awesome! Thanks for the info.

JTE Brett

Rambler65

Hard to say these days. So many brands source the same items from the same factories in China. Four Seasons has been around forever and has usually been a reliable choice. I have had a UAC compressor and drier on my daily driver with no apparent problems for several years now. Haven't used Spectra or GPD air conditioning components.

BTW, a good source of information on automotive AC issues in general is:

https://forum.aircondition.com/forum/main-forum

JTE Brett

PatHenry

Great info - Thanks Rambler!

So I ordered a bottle of the nylog. I'm going to take some time this weekend and make sure that I can get all the lines apart (and get familiar with where they are, etc.) and then probably next weekend do the o-ring replacement.

outersketcher

I will have to do the same thing to my own '95 air conditioning system. I'll be moving right along side you in doing this. I too am replacing the dryer.. and all the o rings. And will pull a vaccuum with that pump I got off Amazon.
We'll have to compare how our systems turn out.

One thing I did was. I removed my airconditioning radiator and inspected it carefully. I cleaned out the fins with a fin comb and replaced all rusty hardware.

95XJman

I just replaced my entire AC system this week minus the compressor. Ordered a mix of Four Seasons and UAC parts and all of it seemed to be of the same decent build quality. Was able to pull the old system and replace the parts in under 2 hours.

dzywicki

If the lines have never been apart, you need to be patient with the connectors to the condenser. If it's the same as the later XJs, you'll have quick disconnects. I had to insert the quick disconnect tool and then push, pull, twist, reinsert tool, push, pull, twist (repeat at least 25 times). Took awhile but was able to get them all off. Same drill with one to the evap core.

It's really pretty simple once you start digging in. There are only a handful of connections you need to refurb.

JTE Brett

PatHenry

PatHenry

The connectors on my 95 are threaded (not quick disconnect).

offroadman83

Just got my vacuum pump kit with gauges and planning to tackle my 92s a/c here eventually because of this original thread.

PatHenry

Nice!

There's a 3rd thread with additional info.

I had leaking at my Schrader valves, so I lost my original refrigerant charge. This resulted in my decision to replace the condenser and the lines with the service ports in them (so new schrader valves). I'll hopefully be able to do this this weekend.

Amazon is taking it painfully slow in shipping the electronic leak detector and new switch, but so far they still say I'll have them prior to the weekend.

That little pump works amazing to suck it down to -30!