Since the dealer is asking $750, I would like to know if it is easy to replace the condenser and the dryer myself on a 2002 Avalon and then have the system refilled with an A/C specialist. Prices vary greatly from brand to brand and I was wondering if a Denso at $250 is much better than a Silla at $110. Thanks for your help.
2007-03-21 15:06:43 · 4 answers · asked by Christian D 1 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
I would not do this yourself. Even if done correctly and all seals are good, you don't have a lot of time with the dryer to get all air out of the system. The average "open" time the dryer can stand is about 1/2 hour before the decadent becomes saturated. After that there is no amount of vacuum that will remove the moisture.
2007-03-21 16:30:29 · answer #1 · answered by Lab 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I checked the site and the below sells both brands and ask the people who sell them. Seems two condensers were a $50 difference depending on size and vehicle. You can replace them but if you do not know what you are doing then ONE, get the Haynes Repair Manual and TWO I think they also sell a book on A/C. Since you are not worrying about preserving the Ozone, or leaking the coolant then you basically take them off and put them on. Then shop around for prices on the vacuum and the charge of coolant.
You know after taking them off and my brother putting the thing to vacuum the unit out on my 98 Chrysler, I saw how easy it was. All you really need is the A/C vacuum pump, gauges and coolant which you can buy without a license now. The older one you have to have a license. After you buy the book, you will learn about detecting leaks and stuff.
THIS year I plan to buy the book and do the A/C myself. I want to be chillin now in my ride not sweating with pride now. lol This way I do not have to wait on my brother to do it.
If you decide to buy your unit ask what the warranty is. They are varied. For example get one from autozone. If it goes out in a year, then buy another one. The second time you use a different phone number and name. Then 4 - 6 months down the road come in and just get your money back. Also, they are nationwide so if it breaks down here in San Antonio, Texas you can get another one here of the same brand of coursee. Then couple of months down the road get your refund.
http://oem.thepartsbin.com/parts/thepartsbin/wizard.jsp?year=2002&make=TO&model=AVA--002&category=All&part=A/C%20Condenser&dp=true
2007-03-21 15:47:50 · answer #2 · answered by Big C 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
My suggestion is to find a different mechanic to do the work unless you really know what you are doing in terms of a/c work. Try to find a mechanic who will install parts that you buy on your own. (most shops mark up parts to make money in addition to the labor) Denso is a good part...many Denso parts are original equipment for many new cars. I'm not familiar with Silla though. Also, keep in mind that not doing the job correctly to the "t" will void any warranties on the parts. warranties on aftermarket a/c parts are VERY picky.
2007-03-21 15:16:38 · answer #3 · answered by maverick 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i own a repair shop ,and its not an easy job believe me,i have done it a lot,and there price for this and to get the system back up and running isn't bad at all on this one,for all the work that has to be done that is a reasonable price for it,if i was you i wouldn't even attempt this,its not recommended you even try this at all,good luck i hope this helps.
2007-03-21 15:13:42 · answer #4 · answered by dodge man 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋