Mondial 3.2 A/C Refurbishment | FerrariChat

Mondial 3.2 A/C Refurbishment

Discussion in 'Technical Q&A' started by moysiuan, Sep 25, 2007.

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  1. moysiuan

    moysiuan F1 Rookie
    Silver Subscribed

    Nov 1, 2005
    4,225
    Canada
    When I purchased my 1988 Mondial about 3 years ago, the a/c was not functioning. I went to a shop to do a 134 conversion, and determined I had a failure in the receiver dryer dessicant. The shop flushed and flushed, new dryer and got things cleaned up. Then pressure tested and blew out the condensor. Was repairable. On start up, the compressor did make some initial unpleasant noise, but then seemed to settle and the system worked. But I knew I was on borrowed time with the compressor.

    I managed to track down a Sanden SD508, got a new one from a helpful supplier in the States for about $350. Bought a new clutch and condensor as well, and a new dryer.

    So, before I start to swap out the compressor, etc., is there anything I should think through. I am a persistant do it yourselfer, except for the eventual recharge of the 134 and related leak test. I have done as much research as possible, but need some car specific clarity.

    For example, do I put all the parts on, and still have the system flushed before recharging? Will this just clog up the new dryer if there is some debris in the system? Should not any debris be caught by the old dryer and the compressor itself? I really do not want to replace hoses, they are all in good shape, and the evaporator/expansion valve I was not going to touch. But some say replace everything? The expansion valve is just an orrifice, and since the system works it isn't blocked?

    Should I install an aftermarket filter to get extra debris protection? Will the new dryer be sufficient?

    Will the old compressor come out without bolt access problems or other surprises? Looks pretty accessible in there, but a bit tough to get at some of the bolts.

    I am just hoping for the wisdom of the more experienced f chatters who can give me the heads up on what to expect. Part of the fun of the hobby is just
    tackling these things, always something to learn!
     
  2. snj5

    snj5 F1 World Champ

    Feb 22, 2003
    10,213
    San Antonio
    Full Name:
    Russ Turner
    In addition to your mechanical rebuild, something I found with my 3.2 was that the system was full of under dash leaks due to deteriorating foam or bad connections. I replaced the foam around the center vent, and actually capped off the hose leading to the rear vents in order to maximize the flow out the front and prevent a sink for the the cold.
    I'll be watching your progress for lessons learned, as I want to improve my A/C since I live i San Antonio.

    Many thanks
     
  3. pippo

    pippo Formula 3

    Sep 25, 2005
    1,913
    FL
    Full Name:
    pippopotemus
    I did some systems myself on other cars.....flush before you re- connect. This gets out the crud, and you can flush clean and verify it. Use mineral spirits and air pressure. Blow out all you can. Old hoses are probably still good, if not cracked. R134a calls for "barrier" hoses, as the molecules are smaller that R12, but this is usually overstated, I understand. If you can get to the expansion valve easily, replace it NOW. Otherwise, take the chance. If you keep the old hoses, you must though, get new O rings! And lube them with the ester oil for best sealing. Carefully research the amount of ounces of oil required, and measure it in carefully (6-8 oz). Good luck, guy.
     
  4. Wade

    Wade Three Time F1 World Champ
    Owner

    Mar 31, 2006
    32,793
    East Central, FL
    Full Name:
    Wade O.
    Compressor knocking immediately after servicing is usually from over servicing, as warned by pippo.

    Thanks for starting this project and I'll be very interested in the results. I know it would be the first thing I'd do.
     

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