Heater Core Valve-hot air while AC is on question

[JoeH]

Unfortunately, my little AC issue turned into the full meal deal. While installing a new alternator I had my mechanic top off the refridgerant and and add dye to check for leaks.

In the dead of winter I drove the rig around with the AC cranking which wasn't too bad since the dash still wasn't working but the rear Starcool was cranking. That didn't last long and the R134 was soon puked out and the leak found.

The leak was where the Danhard guys tapped into the compressor to manifold tube (Ford part #6C2Z-19D850-BA). Unfortunately the tube had also been rubbing against the aftermarket shut-off valve which had been loosely installed in the engine bay. Not really wanting to trust the wear spot the part was ordered and the end of the tube cut off and the Danhard tie-in tube reattached, crimped, and soldered. The leak was fixed but not the original problem which was intermittent AC at the dash. More on that tomorrow but here's a couple of pics for those with the Danhard system. Check your shutoff valve and ziptie it down so it's not rubbing on the tube.

[BroncoHauler]

Costly repair aside, at least you've gotten to the root of the problem.


Herb

[JoeH]

Originally Posted by BroncoHauler

Costly repair aside, at least you've gotten to the root of the problem.

Herb

Yep, and the root cause became apparent when it all got pulled apart. There were metal shavings in the orifaces at both the compressor end and the starcool end. The Starcool is the green one. An obvious indication of internal failure of the compressor. The orifaces take the place of an expansion valve and controls or regulates the flow of refridgerant. We replaced the one at the compressor with a variable oriface.

[JoeH]

A new compressor also means you need a new accumulator (ie., reciever/dryer). Similar to alternators and water pumps my take is to avoid a reman and buy new. Total parts and labor came to $1700

I guess I'll reconsider a Deaver Spring upgrade next year. Hope this helps anyone if they run into AC issues coupled with the Danhard Starcool. Cheers and thanks to all who provided advice