Pulling engine - remove AC?

immortal_suby · #1 03-21-2005, 05:15 PM

I am probably pulling the engine this weekend - so far I have everything removed except for the exhaust manifold bolts and the tranny mount bolts.
I removed the intake for better access and to swap it over to the new engine.

I have teh AC pump unbolted and I swung it out of the way and can move it over to where the pump sits right where the battery normally is. Only problem is the main AC hose going into the firewall kindof goes over the top of the engine in the rear.

Has anyone removed an engine without unplugging and removing the AC pump?
I have no experience with hvac and am kinda afraid to unbolt it and have chemicals spray out and burn me up.
I think I have enough room to do it.

If it is necessary to remove it how do I do it without risking certain doom?

Earthworm · #2 03-21-2005, 05:24 PM

Just get someone to evacuate the system and then you won't have to worry about it.

immortal_suby · #3 03-21-2005, 05:32 PM

Yeah - but that is kinda hard to do - I couldn't drive the car before due to a bad head gasket, and now I really can't drive the car since I stripped most of the engine compartment.

Earthworm · #4 03-21-2005, 05:34 PM

Have them do a house call.

svxfiles · #5 03-21-2005, 07:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by immortal_suby

Has anyone removed an engine without unplugging and removing the AC pump?

Yes. I've pulled one with the system intact, and one after draining the system.
If the system developes a leak

, and the freon escapes into the atmosphere, destroying life as we know it,

Then an A/C guy will evacuate your system for about $30-50, and fill it for a little more.

Working around the pump and hose is cheaper and better for the environment.

Ps. There is nothing to BURN you, just freeze you. Keep clear.

ensteele · #6 03-21-2005, 08:06 PM

Make sure you have an open flame to burn any chemicals that might escape!

want-a-fast-svx · #7 03-21-2005, 09:46 PM

it definitely can be done. I did it with the engine i swapped in mine. Just have to have someone hold it out of the way when pulling the engine out and when dropping it in.

Beav · #8 03-22-2005, 10:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ensteele

Make sure you have an open flame to burn any chemicals that might escape!

You got something against Matt, Earl?

R-12 + fire = phosgene gas, otherwise known as mustard gas to those in the trenches during WWII.

immortal_suby · #9 03-22-2005, 04:51 PM

Thanks for the responses guys, I knew someone on here had to have done it before.

gl1674 · #10 03-22-2005, 11:07 PM

Yes it is possible, just did it, the return house on the back of the engine was not a problem. I did not lose the freon in the process. Getting the A/C compressor to/from it's normal spot is the most difficult part. Highly recommend loosening the compressor bracket bolts before installing the compressor back.

I ended up damaging the wire on the back of compressor by pushing it against manifold - take your time, do it carefully and don't force the compressor.

svx_commuter · #11 03-23-2005, 09:14 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by immortal_suby

Has anyone removed an engine without unplugging and removing the AC pump?

I moved the AC compressor out of the way when I did my engine swap, held it in place with a wire. I have pictures in my locker. I did not want to drain the ac system either.