DIY Evap Replacement - Ask me questions

[Fishee]

Scared to attempt the evap replacement?
Ask questions here.
I didn't document the job, but learned quite a bit along the way, happy to share wisdom.

[rick_flying_machine]

How did you confirm the evaporator was leaking ?

I'm trying to isolate the source and having issues. Saw a small leak at the compressor I believe(dye), but my windshield has a small film after a while and I suspect the evaporator as well.

Did you also replace your condenser since your system was probably empty for a while? Thanks!

[Fishee]

Originally Posted by rick_flying_machine

How did you confirm the evaporator was leaking ?

I'm trying to isolate the source and having issues. Saw a small leak at the compressor I believe(dye), but my windshield has a small film after a while and I suspect the evaporator as well.

Did you also replace your condenser since your system was probably empty for a while? Thanks!

Confirming dead evap:
- slow decline in performance
- warmer air on one side vs. the other despite the same temp settings on both sides
- slight hiss sound from HVAC box area when AC running
- slight refrigerant smell in cabin when AC running
- confirmed, not holding vacuum using gauge set

- Oily film on inside of windshield, good indicator of bad evap (PAG oil in system misting out of micro cracks)

Did not replace the condenser. System wasn't fully empty, nor for that long.

Hope this helps!

[darkrom]

How long was the job start to finish? Any tools or equipment you didn't already have that you needed to purchase for this job?

Total cost?

[Fishee]

Originally Posted by darkrom

How long was the job start to finish? Any tools or equipment you didn't already have that you needed to purchase for this job?

Total cost?

Hey - I took my time with it, maybe 16-17 hours cumulative?
I broke it up over about 10 days.

Tools required, mostly standard stuff:
- Sockets, extensions - 10, 13, 16mm
- Torx bits and drivers - T20, 25, 30
- Panel/Trim removal tools
- Tape and a marker for labelling connectors
- Baggies for fasteners, etc.
- Work lights, flash lights, telescoping magnet, towels/cloths, etc.

There's one specialty tool:
- HVAC vacuum pump and gauge set (purchased from amazon)

Total cost:
- $100 for OE evaporator (comes with new o rings)
- $50 for expansion valve
- $5 for PAG46 oil
- $5 for loom tape
- $300 at a shop to refill R134a (we can't buy this stuff in Canada for DIY )