Thread: Automotive aircon - testing used components

Hoping someone here may have auto aircon experience - or even just general refrigeration that's relevant...

Looking to do a custom aircon setup for my old Landrover ute that I'm in the process of rebuilding. Custom because there's nothing available commercially that suits.
I have a good mate with similar vehicle, so if its successful then there will be a second system made.
I'm pretty confident that what I've got in mind is going to work OK, but trying to avoid throwing a bucket of money into new parts, only to find that I've misjudged and need to then shell out again to replace with different components.

My thoughts are to mock something up, then get a basic working system using the numerous used parts I've salvaged out of later model vehicles (mostly 90's Landrover discovery). Tweak the design/components if necessary, then build a proper version with new parts.
Hoses and filter/dryer will definitely be new, but hoping to be able to re-use evaporator/condenser/compressor for the testing if possible.

Definitely don't want to get into the regassing side myself, I'll use a professional for that. Likewise with hose crimping etc unless its practical to do that myself. Ideally if I can do the stuffing around physical work and then get someone to check it over and gas it up would be great.

So to the actual questions...
1. Is it practical to re-use an old evaporator, condenser and compressor for what I have in mind - or am I just setting myself up to fail.
2. What component leak tests etc can I reasonably do myself to improve my chances of success? I have a good vacuum pump, inert gas (argon bottle for the TIG) and practical experience with leak testing things like intercoolers and other air-air heat exchangers.

Steve

Originally Posted by OxxAndBert

Hoping someone here may have auto aircon experience - or even just general refrigeration that's relevant...

Looking to do a custom aircon setup for my old Landrover ute that I'm in the process of rebuilding. Custom because there's nothing available commercially that suits.
I have a good mate with similar vehicle, so if its successful then there will be a second system made.
I'm pretty confident that what I've got in mind is going to work OK, but trying to avoid throwing a bucket of money into new parts, only to find that I've misjudged and need to then shell out again to replace with different components.

My thoughts are to mock something up, then get a basic working system using the numerous used parts I've salvaged out of later model vehicles (mostly 90's Landrover discovery). Tweak the design/components if necessary, then build a proper version with new parts.
Hoses and filter/dryer will definitely be new, but hoping to be able to re-use evaporator/condenser/compressor for the testing if possible.

Definitely don't want to get into the regassing side myself, I'll use a professional for that. Likewise with hose crimping etc unless its practical to do that myself. Ideally if I can do the stuffing around physical work and then get someone to check it over and gas it up would be great.

So to the actual questions...
1. Is it practical to re-use an old evaporator, condenser and compressor for what I have in mind - or am I just setting myself up to fail.
2. What component leak tests etc can I reasonably do myself to improve my chances of success? I have a good vacuum pump, inert gas (argon bottle for the TIG) and practical experience with leak testing things like intercoolers and other air-air heat exchangers.

Steve

1. Yes no reason not to have done this myself. Make sure the parts are fresh and clean not something that has been disconnected and sat open in the weather
2. Pulling a vacuum is the standard test that would be done in a workshop as a leak test prior to re-gassing (at least it was when I built my system but it was a number of years ago). Not sure of the vacuum required or the length of time they let it sit but may be available online somewhere.


Here you go:
https://www.classicautoair.com/auto-...ing-for-leaks/

The equipment you choose has to be compatible with the gas that is now available and there is no legal way around that if my understanding of the current laws is correct. Apparently there is a new gas that has been introduced and now there is no need to hold a license if using that gas. Having said all that real life does not always match what is now mandated by officialdom.

Originally Posted by Chris Parks

Apparently there is a new gas that has been introduced and now there is no need to hold a license if using that gas.

You can buy it at supercheap. If you are Gina Rhinehart. It is insanely expensive.

Hi Guys,

I've heard that "Butane" gas is used now and something about a different pump pressure ! I don't know how accurate that info is.

Originally Posted by BaronJ

Hi Guys,

I've heard that "Butane" gas is used now and something about a different pump pressure ! I don't know how accurate that info is.

I think that may be one of the hack methods, people have been known to use propane, AKA LPG, AKA bbq gas.