Date: Sun, 16 Nov 2003 10:58:33 -0500
Reply-To: Dennis Haynes <dhaynes@OPTONLINE.NET>
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: Dennis Haynes <dhaynes@OPTONLINE.NET>
Subject: Re: Front AC System Failures - European Cooler Air
In-Reply-To: <003101c3ac58$46150cb0$6c689aa6@laptop>
Content-type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii
Is it the compressor sieving or the clutch? If it is the clutch or
pulley bearing failing than the problem is not related to the add on
evaporator. Is it possible the compressor clutch is being engaged due to
a control problem? If you are using both front and rear evaporators, are
there adequate controls to keep both in sync to make sure liquid Freon
does not return to the compressor. An example is the compressor running
with the evap fans running. This can be instant death to the compressor.
How about the routing of the AC lines to ensure proper oil return? Was
the oil requirements calculated for the additional hose capacity. My
guess is that there is a design problem here.
Dennis
-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf
Of Larry Chase
Sent: Sunday, November 16, 2003 10:42 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Front AC System Failures - European Cooler Air
Volks,
I purchased a "Front AC System" from European Cooler Air, Inc.for my VW
Camper Van .. last year.
Drove to Dallas and had the owner, Jerry West install the system and
re-con my factory rear system.
Since that time I haven't been able to get the system to work
consistently.
The current problem ... is "blown compressors". I have gone thru two so
far.
Before I give up on getting this system to work ... I wanted to seek
outythe groups advice.
Any idea what could be going wrong?
Overview:
Have been traveling in mild climates, mostly, so haven't really needed
to use it much.
But have turned the system on for 5 minutes every couple of weeks to
keep things lubed. No problem at those times.
However ... everytime I go to really use it, something happens.
First time: NO AC / Problem ... Leaking Schrader valve.
Action: System evacuated, value replaced, system filled with R12
(original Freeze 12 not available)
Result: Works fine ... But not needed
Second Time: No AC / Problem .... Compressor seized
Action: Replaced Compressor and refilled system with R12
Result: Works Fine ... But not needed
Third Time: Fan belt started squealing, Compressor not turned on /
Problem ... Compressor seized
Action: To be determined.
Note ... Was talking with a AC guy last night. He thinks the problem may
be not enough AC Lubricant in the larger capacity system.
Planned Action: I'll consult a couple more AC people and see if they
feel this is a possible failure cause. If they agree, I'll replace the
compressor, have extra lube added and try "ONE MORE TIME".
What are your thoughts?
all roads lead to Mexican VW repair shops,
Larry Chase
Email: RoadGuy@RoadHaus.com
Web: <http://www.roadhaus.com/> www.RoadHaus.com
Cell: 480 620 8966
What: North American Road Trip
How: RoadHaus - 1990 White VW Westfalia Syncro
Today: North headin South
all roads lead to Mexican VW repair shops,
Larry Chase
Email: RoadGuy@RoadHaus.com
Web: <http://www.roadhaus.com/> www.RoadHaus.com
Cell: 480 620 8966
What: North American Road Trip
How: RoadHaus - 1990 White VW Westfalia Syncro
Today: North headin South