Are you really sure it needs to be replaced? This job is rough. You have to
disassemble the complete AC housing and duct work from the front working
back. That last section is heavy and something a like a mini transmission
jack will help. You need to be careful disconnecting the drain hoses on both
sides so you do not crack the drain pan. While things are down clean the
evaporator and replace that filter type material. It helps keep the water
near the coil so it drains down and does not blow out the ducts with the
air.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
John Rodgers
Sent: Tuesday, August 09, 2011 9:46 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Accessing the A/C Expansion Valve

  I need to replace the expansion valve in my '88GL. In reading the Bentley,
looking at the ETKA, and at the evaporator cover in my van - - I am not at
all sure how to get at it.

 From what I understand, the evaporator and expansion valve are probably
supported in some way - bolts, bracket, something - to the body/frame
overhead. The housing itself is separate and comes free without any
connection to the evaporator itself.

Bentley says support the plastic evap housing with a universal lift crane. I
suppose that means stick a flat board up there  and put a 2x4 upright under
it to keep it from falling as mount attachments are loosened.

In my van, there are three small metal angle brackets on either side
providing support. It looks jury-rigged to me and I'm not sure what's going
to happen when I take them loose. Is the blower motor supported by only that
plastic?? Not clear in Bentley.

Also, that plastic housing has a long crack in it. Apparently a stress crack
of some sort. I guess maybe I will find out why once I get in there.

Any advice on how to tackle this would be much appreciated.

Thanks,

John

--
John Rodgers
Clayartist and Moldmaker
88'GL VW Bus Driver
Chelsea, AL
Http://www.moldhaus.com