Get the Starcool OUT, near Salt Lake

Pongo · 01-27-2021, 03:29 PM

I know there are a bunch of threads related to the Starcool AC units, and I've browsed many of them looking for advice on who can service these things. We actually just want ours REMOVED from our Ford E350, but no one I've talked to so far wants to touch the thing.

Does anyone have recommendations for someone in the greater Salt Lake City area who could help with this? I really don't want to drive it to CA or TX just for this... Thanks in advance!

gahamby · 01-28-2021, 09:13 AM

Look for a shop that does fleet service of limo busses and trucks.

gahamby · 01-28-2021, 09:15 AM

https://www.transairmfg.com/index.cfm

**daveb** · 01-28-2021, 11:49 PM

My buddy does fleet A/C work on big rigs. Not much of an issue in him maintaining mine. He wouldn't have an issue capping it off (isolating it) if necessary to disable it though. The worst part is getting the equipment out of the conversion, something he really wouldn't want to do.

JWA · 01-29-2021, 07:37 AM

I'm a bit late here but I'd DIY removed the factory rear A/C and heater---was taking up much needed space. Long story short I simply converted that dual zone system into a fully factory front only system using Ford parts---one hose, the filter/dryer and orifice tube.

I completely disconnected the rear evaporator from the compressor & condenser--I also went so far as to remove most of the aluminum tubing running front-to-rear. I did however use the heated coolant lines and relocated the heater inside the raised roof.

Depending on your skill level, motivation and access to trustworthy A/C service shops this wouldn't be too difficult a task. I'm already very well equipped tool-wise but did buy a "cheap" set of Harbor Freight service wrenches for the A/C fittings. I would be tough doing this properly without such wrenches, a 12" or larger adjustable wrench would work though along with other fractional wrenches. 5/8" up to 1" and possibly larger.

Let me know if you need or want more information.

HTH

BrianW · 01-29-2021, 10:03 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JWA

I'm a bit late here but I'd DIY removed the factory rear A/C and heater---was taking up much needed space. Long story short I simply converted that dual zone system into a fully factory front only system using Ford parts---one hose, the filter/dryer and orifice tube.

Starcool is a bit more involved to remove than the factory rear HVAC. Has solenoids and other crazy stuff since it is a hybrid 12v/110v system. Still, shouldn't be too hard to do.

Pongo · 01-29-2021, 05:01 PM

Thanks all. I took it by here today since they are fairly close to me:

https://daviesmotor.com/index.html

The guys seemed to know what they were doing and are looking up some Ford parts to price it out. It sounds like they'll need to replace some of the hoses / manifold to get the front cab A/C back into working order since it also appeared damaged and had been leaking. If needed, I could probably take the remaining components out after they isolate and repair the front A/C system.

arctictraveller · 01-30-2021, 11:19 AM

Its also possible to simply evacuate the Freon (it must be captured using a recycling machine though) then cap the lines running to the rear, pull a vacuum on the system, recharge, and your good to go, no need to replace any of the other fittings, just ignore all the extra lines and hoses. Then you could remove all the equipment in the rear.

JWA · 01-31-2021, 08:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BrianW

Starcool is a bit more involved to remove than the factory rear HVAC. Has solenoids and other crazy stuff since it is a hybrid 12v/110v system. Still, shouldn't be too hard to do.

Something new I've learned about the Starcool systems---thanks for that BrianW!

Quote:

Originally Posted by arctictraveller

Its also possible to simply evacuate the Freon (it must be captured using a recycling machine though) then cap the lines running to the rear, pull a vacuum on the system, recharge, and your good to go, no need to replace any of the other fittings, just ignore all the extra lines and hoses. Then you could remove all the equipment in the rear.

As I said earlier capping refrigerant lines off is okay IF its done in the proper location. There is a danger in A/C system oil collecting in those capped lines and starving the compressor of much needed oil.

Seems the OP has secured a possible shop for this removal---hope that's not too spendy!

arctictraveller · 01-31-2021, 10:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JWA

As I said earlier capping refrigerant lines off is okay IF its done in the proper location. There is a danger in A/C system oil collecting in those capped lines and starving the compressor of much needed oil.

Good point, I'd do it under the hood as opposed to in the rear.