Hi Scotty,
This question is about my pre-owned 1991 Mercury Capri [Automatic; Base model; 69k miles]. I am very very new to cars (just getting started, and I'm self taught). I recently had a mishap with my drive belt and want to take this opportunity to fully and permanently remove my entire AC system. The system doesn't work, and it is an old R12 system. I've been desperately trying to teach myself this process from internet breadcrumbs, but it's amazing how little info there is out there. Here is what I do understand thus far about my situation:
- I *should* have a mechanic drain the R12 system beforehand
- No self respecting mechanic will let their freon system anywhere near R12 residue
- For a full delete, I would need to remove the compressor and coolant lines (possibly more?)
I know I am over-simplifying this process, but I need some help establishing an exact list of all the parts that I can remove which are part of the AC system, where to look for them and also if there are any parts that need to be sealed/capped off afterwards? My main concern is that no mechanic will let my old R12 residue near their expensive R134 equipment, so I'm concerned that no one will drain the system for me.
Thanks in advance!
It should be possible to find a mechanic that has R12 recovery equipment. Look for an older shop that works on older vehicles. (Since the AC doesn't work it may even be empty already.)
Really all you need to do is disconnect the compressor clutch wire and the system will never turn on. The compressor pulley will free-wheel and will not take up any power from the engine. That's the simplest thing to do.
If you really want to take everything out you would need to remove compressor, refrigerant lines, condenser, evaporator, drier, and expansion valve. Ideally you'd want to install a non-AC heater control panel. All you'd need to seal off would be holes in the firewall left by removing the AC hoses and tape off AC related wiring.
With the compressor removed you'll need to set up your fan belt(s) the way they would be on a non-AC Capri.
Really it would be easiest just to disable the AC rather than remove everything. (That's what I'd do but I'm getting lazy in my old age.)
You could also just get a shorter drive belt to bypass the compressor all together but still run the other accessories, ie, power steering, alternator, water pump, etc. You can get a Tailor's Tape at the dollar store and wrap it around the pulleys to get a measurement.
