Air Con Compressor

[RussJ]

My aircon wasn't blowing cold so I took it to a local garage to get the system recharged.
He put in the correct amount (850g?) but when he engaged the system the engine nearly stalled and shook on its mountings.
He decided to extract the refrigerant to be safe and pronounced the compressor bu**ered.
Before I replace it has anyone any thoughts on alternative explanations?
Car is '04 Aero auto estate, 80k miles, never had to touch the aircon before but have replaced the cabin filter regularly.
Is replacing the compressor a DIY job? (obviously not the re-charging bit).
Any ideas much appreciated!
Russ

[Leon TurboX]

Could be, assuming he removed and vac'd the remaing gas first?
850g is the right amount, if it's over charged it will cause similar symptoms.

But yes, you could replace the unit yourself.
Maybe worth a second opinion before commiting to a rather expensive compressor!

[RussJ]

Hi Leon, I'm so glad you suggested a second opinion....
Took the car down to Kwikfit and they hooked it up to their machine.
40mins and £49 later all done!
Apparently there was only 2ml of oil in the compressor and this was the likely cause of stalling etc.
Their aircon machine is fully automatic, all they do is connect it up and enter the car make and model.
It extracts all the old gas and moisture, does a leak test, checks compressor oil and if all is OK, fills the system with the correct amount of refrigerant.
Never been a fan of Kwiksh8t myself but they do seem to have this particular service sorted.
I think I'm going to take the wifes' Smart there next - she was complaining that it wasn't blowing cold.
Russ

[Kev_Mc]

Must admit KwikFit sorted one of my old 9000's too. Was around what you said, and it was ice cold after that.

[Leon TurboX]

Good news and a considerable sum saved! 

[phoenix]

The other cause of compressor stall can be a faulty expansion valve