I purchased an '89 Chevrolet C1500 a year ago. The A/C system is completely empty. I plan to flush the system and replace the O-rings, valves, compressor, orifice tube, and charge with the new type coolant. Should the Accumulator also be replaced before charging the system? Why would the Accumulator need replacing?
Open Reply - Steve
I would suggest taking your vehicle to a certified mechanic for a proper diagnosis before buying and having parts installed that may not (solve/be) the problem.
Open Reply - vlstyles
Always replace an accumulator when the system has been discharged for a while. The desiccant becomes inefficient to dry the freon. For this application the cost & installation is negligible.
Open Reply - autogeek
Absolutely yes. The accumulator absorbes 'moisture", ergo, if it was open to atmosphere for any period of time from 1989 till now, it will have/could have most definately absorbed moisture. Thats its main job.
If you are replacing as many parts as you say you are, then, of course replace the accumulator. Its a cheap and easy part to replace.
Make very certain to have 4-6 ozs of ester oil, then button it up and have a full vacuum of entire sys "before" adding R-134.