I have a shop evacuate the system for me.

As for tools, I have a set of gauges and hoses and one of those cheap vacuum pumps that run off an air compressor. It works fine as long as the system hasn't been left open or discharged for any amount of time.�

I swapped out my compressor a couple of years back. There are only a couple of varieties of Sanden compressors out there, the differences being mounting style, pulley type and back plate. I went on Sanden's website, found out which compressor models had the same mounting ears, pulley and were designed for R134a (Sanden 4717 or a 4777). Then I searched ebay for those particular models until I found a new one for a reasonable price (around $100 delivered if memory serves).

When I received it, I swapped the back plate off my old compressor onto the new one, re-installed, recharged and it has worked fine ever since.

I've done compressor and condensor replacements in two other vehicles as well using my setup; a '99 Mercedes CLK-320 and a '99 Jetta GL. Both have been functioning properly for the last two years.�

One thing I found when re-charging a Vanagon A/C system, make sure you close the engine hatch and all the doors when charging the system so the evaporator isn't sucking hot air out of the engine compartment or ambient air from the rear of the van. Either will cause your gauge readings to be too high and make you think that you have overcharged the system.

Good luck,

TJ Hannink
Goldibox - 1987 Vanagon Camper, Wolfsburg Edition
1981 Bluebird Wanderlodge, FC-33SB
Des Allemands, Louisiana
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/wolfsburg_campers
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/FC_wanderlodge

________________________________
 From: Todd Last <rubatoguy@COMCAST.NET>
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM 
Sent: Thursday, May 9, 2013 10:21 AM
Subject: A/C tools question
 

For those who work on their A/C, how do you recover the refrigerant and evacuate the system so you can do repairs?
Does anyone own their own A/C recovery unit? Or do you take it to the local A/C shop?

What are the best strategies & what are the favorite tools?
For example, if you need to replace the compressor - what it the best DIY strategy?

BTW - if you want to buy R-12 you have to get EPA609 certification.
http://www.epatest.com/609/

thanks,
Todd
'88 Westy