can you use an old a/c condenser?

[williamc]

My radiator put a hole in my a/c condenser. Shop says not to use a used one, as air in the open environement will ruin it. This threw up a flag, as I dont see how exposure will ruin a condenser, but someone here should know better. Please let me know if you can shed light on this for me.

William

 

[Defiant]

Christ, for a twelve-year-old car, a REAL shop would epoxy or solder (yes, aluminum solder exists) the hole, vacuum down the system and recharge. But let me guess, they'd rather sell you a new $800 condensor, wouldn't they?

 

[williamc]

I passed your information along to the mechanic. He claims that epoxy/welds may not hold the excessive psi running through the condenser (200psi). His reasoning for not using a used one is that moisture can get in the condenser and ruin the receiver/dryer. I think I should just get a used one, leave it in the sun for a day, and buy a new receiver/dryer. Thanks for the information.

William

 

[JATBarandgrill]

If done properly, you should vacuum the a/c lines and most of the things in the condensor will get sucked out.

 

[Defiant]

Well, your mechanic and I disagree. It happens. See what a radiator shop says about repairing it.

As for used, they seldom get filled with water, and that in the air would be removed by a vacuum job. Hold of on the drier, you won't need it.