Going to swap out my a/c compressor this weekend. Looks pretty simple. Wanted to know if there is anything I should look out for when I do this job.

I did notice there seems to be an open screw hole or something with threads in it but on mine it's empty. What is it? Should it be empty?

After I drop it in I will have a garage properly fill it with refrigerant.

 

Welcome to the forum.

Please update your profile and signature to completely identify your vehicle so others may provide appropriate assistance.

With all projects, safety is the most important first step. The R134a must be properly handled and properly recovered. The R134a presents freeze burn risk for skin and eyes. Wear goggles and gloves.

Why not also post an image showing the part(s) of concern to save a kiloword?

 

I have a 2005 JGC 3.7L 2WD.

If anyone could please list all of the fuses/relays for the a/c associated with my truck. I just want to double check them all out before I have the garage refill the refrigerant on Thursday. Can't really tell if anything is working since the system is empty, the clutch won't engage due to low pressure switch.

 

It makes zero sense to refill the system if there is a leak(s).

The system must be first checked to verify it will hold a complete vacuum w/o leaking, prior to refilling.

If it doesn't hold vacuum, then all the failed parts must first be replaced.

 

Guy at the garage said my high side pipe is cracked and needs replacing. Quoted me $618 for the job.

Is there any chance I could do this work myself? Not replacing the refrigerant but replacing the pipe??

 

Yes, AC work can be a DIY activity. The tools are not expensive. A vacuum pump and a manifold gauge set are required, costing about $200.

The objective is to attain a system w/o leaks. Connect the manifold gauges and the vacuum pump, draw down to maximum vacuum, then shut the valves and the pump to verify vacuum is maintained, indicating a leak free system.

That high side pipe is not expensive, either for the Four Seasons or for the Mopar versions. It has single bolt retention, so removal / replacement is easy.

Use on the very clean replacement part to ensure no leaks.

Adding the refrigerant is also not difficult. Follow all appropriate safety procedures for eye, lung and skin protection.

 

Can I change these hoses/pipes myself and just have the garage do the vacuum test/add refrigerant?

 

Yes. What would be expected if those parts leak when tested by the garage? What if other problems are located at that time?

When swapping out major components, like the compressor, the system oil must be appropriate. The Factory Service Manual (FSM) lists the total oil required, plus how much oil is estimated to reside in each major component.

The OP started w/ swapping out the compressor. When I purchased a replacement compressor, the first thing I did was to dump out the oil within to measure the volume. In my case there was almost enough oil for the entire system. It would not be good to overload the system w/ too much oil. Follow the FSM.