My A/C doesn't work in my '85 Buick Lesabre. Would it be better for me to take an a/c system off of a Delta 88

Question

I saw a pretty nice system at Pull-a-part (junkyard) and thought about getting it. It wasn't corroded or anything and in good shape. Would this be a good move to make since the engine in my 85 lesabre and the Delta 88 are the same thing???
I don't have equipment to check for leaks or anything to test out the used system...Or should I just get a compressor and try that first???

Answer 1

Unless you know for a fact exactly what is wrong with the system, changing out parts isn't going to do a thing for you. Take it to a qualified A/C mechanic to have it diagnosed.

Even if you get lucky and replace the correct part(s), it still won't work until it is charged by a qualified mechanic. That's not something you can do yourself.

Systems of that age use R-12 refrigerant and it is illegal for you to open the system unless you are licensed by the EPA and have the necessary recovery equipment to properly evacuate the system.

Lastly, if the system you are looking at has already been removed from the vehicle and wasn't property sealed immediately it's not likely that the equipment will be useable any more. Once ANY moisture gets into an A/C system it is a bugger to get it out and some components must be replaced any time they are exposed to ambient air such as a receiver/dehydrator or VIR unit.

Answer 2

Even if those parts are interchangeable, chances are you would be replacing bad parts with bad parts. Keep in mind that refrigerant is mixed with oil and it's the oil that keeps all of the seals lubricated. A compressor that's been sitting and not used will likely be leaking.

Also, when changing out a compressor, it's always advisable to replace the filter with a new one. Not doing that would be like changing the oil in your vehicle and not replacing the filter.

Answer 3

The engines might be the same, but that doesn't necessarily mean the A/C is....

You're still going to have to evacuate the system, and refill...I'd take the Buick somewhere to find the leak (most probable problem), and fix what you've already got.

Answer 4

Assuming the two bypass muster on the inspection, i might decide for the three.8L and the LeSabre. i think of the 3800 has 205 HP and the 3100 had ~a hundred and sixty lower back then and in a vehicle this is merely slightly smaller that HP and TQ is presented in reachable. The 3800 is likewise much less demanding to artwork on. you could desire to pull the full magnificent end off a 3100 (pushrods interior the way) to alter an intake mani gasket mutually as the 3800 is nowhere close to as in touch. purely a greater applicable designed engine, era. If the LeSabre passes inspection, get it.

Answer 5

if its the same thing and the same engine,then you could change the compressor and try that.hows the condensor in front of the radiator?if you got everything else,you could change the compressor and go to auto zone and get the kit and pick up some sealer,just in case it has a leak in the system.