Blown Head Gasket---AC Compressor Removal?

gmarti87 · 12-11-2006

Hi all,

I'm new here and I'm considering to fix my '95 Mustang V6 3.8L.

It has a blown head gasket and according to the Chilton book I have to remove the AC compressor as one of the first steps.

I took a look to it and it does not seem to interfere with the heads removal.

I'm asking for some advice if it is absolutely necessary to take out the compressor or not.

If not it would do my task a lot easier.

Thanks

shinerstang · 12-11-2006

It may save you time, but I believe it has to come out. Isn't it mounted to the head? If you have to keep moving it, or have to work around it, take it out. You'll have enough problems lining up the gaskets/bolts/heads that the compressor would be the least of your problems. Taking the time to do it right would be the first step...... The coolant is only around 20 bucks or so for the refills. Make sure you get the compressor oil for the AC too.

thomasusmc · 12-11-2006

You're going to want to get the lines vacuumed before refilling the freon. This is to ensure all possible contaminants have been removed. You can get the freon with PAG oil from almost any parts store for about $20.00. Get the ones with a guage, so you can make sure you don't overfill it and possibly cause damage to the A/C system.

shinerstang · 12-11-2006

They used R134A refridgerant in those applications as to not harm the environment.