I'm going to be replacing my AC compressor soon. I've read a lot about checking for metal particles and having to flush the AC system if metal particles are found. My question is how do I know if the old compressor put metal particles into the system? Are the particles easy to see? Where should I look to find them? Appreciate any input. Thanks everyone.

 

Why are you replacing the a/c compressor?

When my a/c compressor stopped working, I had the R-134a removed by a shop. I took off the hoses to the compressor and poured some denatured ethanol down the hose and drained the hose on to a white paper towel. The grey metal shavings were obvious.

I replaced all parts that were within my budget (condenser, compressor, hoses). I found an evaporator that was from a wrecked vehicle that had no shaving from my ethanol test, and used it as that part was expensive. All new o-rings. Its been about 7 years since the repair and the a/c is going strong on my TSX.

To save money, you can keep flushing the components with water until you are confident that the metal is gone. Drain as much water as possible, then flush with the denatured ethanol to help dry out the components.

At minimum, the receiver/dryer will need replacing if you have metal in the system.