I just replaced my leaking evaporator core but unfortunately found debris when emptying the accumulator. At this point should I just replace the condenser, lines, and compressor or do I have another option?

 

You didn't say what year, if it's an older R12 system with a serpentine condenser you should be able to use a flushing kit to clear it out. R134 systems use a parallel condenser that can't be flushed if there's a clog. (The flushing compound will just be forced around the clog.)

If the compressor has been contaminated with debris (or is the source of the debris) it should be replaced. You'll also want to install a new drier.

 

Its an 01. I just ordered a new condenser and compressor plus liquid tubes. I don't want to take any chances with the compressor going bad soon after the repairs so I'll get my dash back together tomorrow and wait for the rest of the parts.

 

That is the best thing to do - if the old compressor self destructs you'd have to do everything all over again and put in yet another condenser and drier.

Do it right and you should be OK for years. Definitely get a new drier/accumulator as well if you have not already done so.

My '99 XJ has a slow AC leak that seems to be in the evaporator. I'm not looking forward to taking the dash apart to get to that sucker.

 

Its actually not that bad. The hardest part was reaching the nut behind the engine and getting the ac lines to disconnect. I'm just hoping it all goes back together neatly.

 

For now I'm going to live with topping up the A/C a couple of times a year. Too many other projects to deal with. I know it's only going to get worse over time though. When I finally get to it I'll replace the heater core at the same time while in there.

 

Looking at taking my evaporator out next weekend. You said it wasn't that bad. I dont know about that,man.... Have you put it back together yet?

 

All done, I replaced every part-evap, accumulator, condenser, lines and compressor. The hardest part was getting the nut behind the cylinder head to free the hvac unit. You need a 7/16 wobble head ratchet for that. I didn't remove the seats and just dropped the steering column down. Didn't need to remove the entire dash either. Id say it was about 4-5 hours for the evaporator job from start to finish. Time consuming but not difficult at all. I also found that the quick connect tool from the auto parts store needed to be filed down thinner to free up the lines. Lining up the hvac unit to go back in was a little hard as well but not too bad. Keep in mind I did this all without any assistance. You can do this!

 

Thats awesome. Did you follow along in a shop or Chiltons manual or see it on youtube?

 

I used a few different internet write ups just as a baseline but its a pretty straight forward repair.