I replaced my AC compressor with a used piece from ebay, now I have the original one with its blown seal. Is there somewhere I can send it that will give me a "core charge", or am I stuck finding some way to recycle it?

 

I'm more interested in your "how to" thread on replacing and charging/pozzing your AC.

 

The seal can be replaced.

 

Easy, pull a nice vacuum for 45 minutes. Charge the system with 22 oz (For NA8s) of R134 and up to 8 oz of oil, depending on how much was lost with a component change.

 

I haven't gotten that far yet. I have the new compressor in, and I'll figure out how to poz the system later. I'll probably try that Harbor freight vacuum generator.

 

I have the HF vacuum pump. Make sure you get the two stage one, that will remove any and all moisture.

Also pulling vacuum for 45 minutes is not enough. I pull vac for at least 12 hours, sometimes more. You want to be absolutely sure that the system is dry.

If you are doing a full on rebuild then I highly suggest flushing the system and replacing the drier at a minimum. Expansion valve if you have the time (requires pulling dash).

 

I don't think the HF pump will run for that long straight. 12 hours is over kill.

 

I've completely rebuilt 4 AC systems, granted they were on Mercedes the general recharge procedure is roughly the same.

Haven't had an issue with my HF pump, just make sure it's topped off with oil and if you want put a fan on it to cool it off. 12 hours is overkill, but I'd rather be overkill than leave moisture in the system.

Checking for leaks is also another big thing that needs to be done. You can't, I repeat CAN'T be certain that your system is leak free if you don't use PRESSURE on the system to do so. Vac the system down, use a dry gas like Nitrogen and pressurize the system for at least 24 hours.

I'm very meticulous about my AC systems, especially since my cars use R12 sans the Miata.

 

In for "charging" thread.

 

12 hours is COMPLETE OMFG WTF ARE YOU INSANELY RETARDED overkill.


The other things you mention, like using positive pressure to pressure-test the system are absolutely correct.

Also, you can remove the evaporator box/expansion valve without removing the dash. I've done it a few times. Just remove the glovebox and you'll have enough space.

 

^Like I said, in the cars I've rebuilt AC in I'm using R12. I'd rather be overkill with it than not. After flushing the system with citrus cleaner, filling it with oil, and putting it all back together I certainly don't want any trace of moisture left over. 20 minutes of evac won't cut it for me. It might boil everything out but I want to be damn sure nothing is left in there.

Yes, pressure is the only answer to find out of your car has a sealed system!! And don't use stop leak crap either, that ruins everything and makes poor flow for the freon.

I've never pulled apart my Miata for AC reasons, I just assumed you had to. Funny, even in my 300TD you just have to remove the glovebox...