AC has not quite been up to snuff lately. This morning ended up with a strange harmonic. Diagnosed as AC compressor going out. Any suggestions on which brand AC compressor and drier/accumulator? Also any tips and tricks are always appreciated.
Denso seems to be a stalwart brand. Make sure they flush the system to get any debris out.
Ed in San Jose '97 540i 6 speed aspensilber over aubergine leather. Build date 3/97. Golden Gate Chapter BMW CCA Nr 62319.
Are you sure it is the compressor, and not the water pump, cooling fan, or the radiator...?
Looking for an E39 belly pan , passenger front inner fender liner …
It is definitely the compressor. Only rattles when it is engaged and with RPM. Already had it on the lift to check idler pulley, tensioner, and belt. Checked AC pressures last week because of weak cooling recently. Had a feeling then it was on it's way out. Water pump is tight and not running the engine driven fan with the 88c thermostat. Would not even cool until engine was revved the first time.
Sounds like legit diagnosis Roy. Get in there and do that thing.
2003 M3CicM6 TiAg
2002 540iT Sport Vortech S/C 6MT LSD TiAg
2008 Audi A3 2.0T DSG (the daily beater)
2014 BMW X1 xDrive28i (wifemobile)
Former:
1985 MB Euro graymarket 300SL
1995.5 Audi S6 Avant (utility/winter billetturbobattlewagen)
Yes, Denso makes an "Exact Fit" replacement compressor. Got mine at (IIRC) either RMEuropean or ECS Tuning. Changed it out after it started making weird vibes/noises, and only cooled if the engine was revved, then stopped cooling altogether.
If you're changing the compressor, you should also change out the dryer, as long as you're in there with the AC system opened up. If the system looks dirty, maybe change the expansion valve as well.
Ed CT
1998 528i
5-Speed
Aspen Silver
Aubergine Leather
Parts on order including Denso compressor and drier. I am going to back flush the condenser to start with. If it is fairly clean will go from there, if not then everything else will get flushed and the expansion valve changed as suggested. Thanks all.
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