'04 Columbia A/C question.

Your new compressor would normally come to you with oil in it. It's a good idea to always verify this. Then you would need to add 1 ounce of oil for the new drier. You can add this oil directly into the drier before installation. If your system had been flushed, then you would need to add additional oil to replace what was removed from flushing.

 

There is a dip stick to measure the oil level in the compressor, I use to add 2 oz for every component changed. If the compressor put metal into the system you may want to remove it and flush it. then add 2 oz oil into the system for that. The freon will distribute the oil. If you are going to flush the evaporator, remove the expansion valves. Just a thought!

 

Best of luck to ya Floyd!

 

In that case, I would recommend also replacing the expansion valve and flushing the system. First remove compressor inlet and outlet lines, remove drier inlet and outlet lines, remove expansion valve. Force flush solvent followed by air pressure through each individual line and component. Install new compressor, expansion valve and drier last to prevent moisture exposure to drier. Vacuum system for an hour or two (longer the better) add 6oz oil and charge system with fan on high speed.

 

The rule of thumb is to add 1.5~2 ounces of oil for every component replaced. So if the compressor has oil in it already and you do a flush you want to make the that gets pushed out of the condenser and evaporator.

Bender said pour the oil directly into the drier when you install it. Uhh thats a no no as it can hinder the driers performance. It may not hurt it but why take a chance.

Oil the orings with AC oil before you install them on the fittings, makes them seal easier

 

Receiver drier has a built in sump for holding oil. This sump will always be holding oil whether you put it there directly or if it gains on its own from the oil in the system.

 

I have always used a machine to install the extra oil into the system. first check the oil level in the compressor, assemble with new "O" rings, evacuate for at least an hour to allow moisture to vaporise, and be removed, then add oil, and the gas.
If the compressor failed I would remove the condenser, and add solvent, blow it out, do it a couple of times, drain onto a clean towel to be sure it is clean. You can cut open the dryer to check the filter to see if the contaminates broke the bag and spread the desiccant beads or metal past the dryer.
Works for me.