Should I replace the AC condenser?

[DrDusty86]

My 99' Escort zx2 has 203k on it.It has the factory AC condenser on it, but it it fairly beat up on the lower 1/3 of it, dented fins etc..darn gravel truck around here don't help. NO leaks.. Should I replace it? If so how much should it cost for a new one installed with dryer??? I heard the dryer acts as the filter so.. Forgive my ignorance with AC systems..please. It is still cooling fine and is quiet. I just don't want to have the compressor lock up because of a leak or bent fins or some other avoidable measure. The system was appart 7 years ago for a leaky low pressure line by a rep ford dealer.
Thanks,
Dusty
PS my dad says if it isn't broke don't fix it.. it could go MANY more years.
BUT I have seen 3 different ac compressors lock up on GM vihicles in the last month and i'm kinda nervious because they were 07-10 model year.

 

[Chris Meutsch]

Leave it alone until it breaks.

 

[Seguino]

Listen to your dad.
I believe there is a low pressure switch in the system to prevent damage to to the compressor in the event of a leak.
Save your money.

 

[2oldtommy]

No need to replace a dented condensor coil. If it blows cold, you're in great shape to keep that Escort going for many more years! FWIW-Oldtommy

 

[Texan4Life]

Originally Posted By: Chris Meutsch
Leave it alone until it breaks.


+1

worst case it gets plugged up enough which will result is poor cooling,. or it gets dinged again causing a leak.

either way your compressor is protected because of the low and high pressure cut out switches.

 

[Cristobal]

Don't some mechanics have fin combs to strighten those out? You can buy one yourself online. Be careful not to rupture the line or if a mechanic can do it, have him comb the ding out.

 

[mechtech2]

Right. Get a comb to straighten those fins. Don't go for perfection, just good airflow. And be gentle. Maybe a low pressure garden hose wash from behind.

At teamzx2.com, some use window screening on the inlet to help stop debris from entering that area.

But other than that, leave it alone and drive it.

 

[DrDusty86]

I would like to but some are smashed..IE not combable by me. I have a comb. It doesn't work that well or I'm not using it right. I still have 4-5 dents that the comb doesn't work on.
Dusty

 

[Kestas]

Ditto to putting a rock stopper in front of the condenser. I use 1/4-inch hardware cloth for all cars that have an open grille design, including the ZX2.

 

[DrDusty86]

How do you attach it? Where, at what mounting points? Airflow obstruction concerns?

 

[Chris142]

A comb wont work on serpentine fins. They are for continues fins only. All you can do is straighten the fins with a small screwdriver ad a 6-pack.

If the AC works ok I wouldn't bother with it.

Since it's a Ford and it's 12 years old it's about due for a major AC problem so just wait till that happens and replace it then.

 

[DrDusty86]

Like I said earlier, I have seen 3 GM vehicles puke thier compressors that were relatively NEWER. Does this mean GM makes junk? I know Dodges trucks are junk from first hand experiences. My 98 CTD, 02 CTD, 05 CTD 05 Hemi.Honda's have [censored] Automatic transmissions.. SO,CHRIS what do you drive?

Ford has better components used in their lines than MOST other brands.. [censored] I saw an alternator being changed by a guy in my apartment complex on an 08 Camery with 56k on it... Seems kinda premature don't ya think??

 

[lexus114]

Originally Posted By: DrDusty86
Like I said earlier, I have seen 3 GM vehicles puke thier compressors that were relatively NEWER. Does this mean GM makes junk? I know Dodges trucks are junk from first hand experiences. My 98 CTD, 02 CTD, 05 CTD 05 Hemi.Honda's have [censored] Automatic transmissions.. SO,CHRIS what do you drive?

Ford has better components used in their lines than MOST other brands.. [censored] I saw an alternator being changed by a guy in my apartment complex on an 08 Camery with 56k on it... Seems kinda premature don't ya think??



A/C puts a heck of a load on an alt. Probably why,or defective to begin with. And dude....it`s Camry.

 

[mechtech2]

Originally Posted By: DrDusty86
How do you attach it? Where, at what mounting points? Airflow obstruction concerns?


You would put it in the low air inlet on the bumper/fascia - from behind.
A more open weave is better for flow.
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