A/C advice needed (long) (archive)

It's beginning to heat up in Honolulu and it's time for me to fix my A/C. Had the system refilled (w/R-12) late last summer. At the time, the guy told me I had some leaks and would probably need another recharge in about a year. Seems he was optimistic -- by Thanksgiving, I was blowing unchilled air. He identified the sources of the leaks as the evaporator core and expansion valve. He also said I would need to replace the receiver/dryer and estimated the entire job at a hair under $900 (and that's a "special price" because he's a client of my company!). He also gave me an estimate of about $1,100 to fix the system and convert it to R-134.

As you can probably imagine, I'd like to be able to do the job for a tad less money.

Through cursory research, I've figured the parts cost at about $268 with the following prices: Evaporator core - $125; Receiver/dryer - $39; Expansion valve - $30; high and low pressure switches - $35 and $19, respectively (my BavAuto guy says I should replace them as long as I've already got things taken apart); and a pair of new valves to accept R-134 at $10 each.

So I've got a couple of questions: First, how do those prices sound? Some are from BavAuto; others are from a Roundel advertiser called "Europroducts," a company with which I have no experience. BavAuto has always been good with me about matching competitors' prices, so I'd just assume go with them. Any cheaper alternatives, assuming good quality components, would be appreciated.

Second, how difficult is installation of these parts? Obviously, I'd have to have the system evacuated before doing anything myself, but I would like to cut down on my labor cost. Installation of the receiver/dryer and three valves seems pretty straightforward since they're in the engine compartment, but plugging in the evaporator core looks difficult for someone like myself who's loathe to take his dashboard apart. As I recall from talking to my BavAuto guy, the switches are attached to the evaporator. Can these components be installed from the engine compartment or is going through the dash the only way? Any advice/input/suggestions would be appreciated. TIA

Follow Ups:

Re: A/C advice needed (long)-Gypped... Paul Carlson 19:38 4/30/2000 (0)

[ Follow Ups ] [ 3-series (E30) Message Board ] [ Msg. Board FAQ ]

Questions, comments, or problems, please visit the Roadfly help desk.