Are used AC compressors any good?

[yorab]

So my compressor is toast (see another thread). I have an '86 GL with Hitachi compressor. My local parts yard has used compressors for sale with a 60 day money-back guarantee. The price is great compared to reman. Are used compressors any good?

[GeneralDisorder]

Depends on the vehicle they came from and how they have been handled since being removed.

 

That's like asking "are used cars any good?"

 

GD

[idosubaru]

i've replaced numerous a/c compressors, used every single time. 100% sucess rate so far, it's well worth it considering how easy they are to replace and how rarely they fail. i'd rather replace them twice than spend for a new one. i recharge all my own stuff too, it's very simple.

[yorab]

Okay, I was hoping to hear that somebody has had success with installing a used compressor. With the money back warranty, I can't see how it would hurt to try it out, since I'll have a bit of time next weekend.

[GeneralDisorder]

As with a lot of things, it also depends on what part of the country you are in. I would imagine that AC compressors are much more likely to wear out in Florida, Southern CA, etc. Here in OR/WA they are mostly used for defrost. I don't see a lot of failures but I've seen a couple.

 

GD

[ivantruckman]

if i removed the compressor personally , and it was still under pressure, I would trust it.

[clunkerbob]

yeh , if the system still has pressure its probably OK . The Jap compressors usually hold up really well .

 

If the internals of the old compressor exploded , you better flush the system or you'll suck the metal shavings in the replacement compressor and it wont do it any good . You are supposed to change the dryer too ... but I've reused the old ones sometimes with no problem if money is tight . Definately change it if the compressor grenaded .

 

c-bob