Hello Scotty,
How are you doing?
I have a 1997 toyota previa but i purchased it without the air conditioning compressor. I have found a few junk yards that have them installed in the previas but besides knowing it has to spin to work, I have no other way to know if their compressor works. Do you have a few tips you can share before i buy it. PS my system has leaks so i can´t check it right away. Also those in the junkyards are the original Denso brand.
Best regards
If the compressor seizes up you're looking at a world of hurt, having to replace every component in the AC system due to the ensuing contamination. You are really better of buying a new (not rebuilt) compressor. The ones in the junkyard are Denso brand but are 25 years old.
If determined to buy a used one about all you can do is rotate the compressor clutch plate (not the pulley) by hand. It should turn smoothly with no locking up or grinding noises. The compressor still might not work but at least that tells you it hasn't seized up internally.
Get a brand new aftermarket compressor with warranty.
This sounds like the perfect recipe for an expensive disappointment.
a new one is the way to go. junk yard parts are not to be trusted in my opinion
