My A/C blew out last year when the condenser sprung a very large leak and I never got around to re-charging it till now (I own a few other cars). I replaced the condenser and the dryer a few months ago and I'm ready to re-charge the system. Do I need to refill the compressor with Ester oil? Can I just charge the system with some cans of r134a and not have to worry about evacuating the system. The A/C has been without a charge for about six months now.

 

You do need to add oil to replace that lost with the old condenser and receiver/dryer. I wouldn't add it to the compressor though. If it was me I'd add oil directly to the condenser. Since you have already installed it you may have to use the receiver/dryer. It's only a few ounces so you would not have it open to air for long.

Next I'd pull a vacuum for about 45 minutes and let it sit in that state for a couple hours then try to pull any remaining air out for a few more minutes. Next I'd fill the system normally with the cans upright.

The reason I wouldn't add oil directly to the compressor is because it has oil already from the previous charge. Plus I'd be afraid of ruining the compressor with it trying to compress a liquid. As always with a receiver/dryer system, it must be charged with vapor only (can upright) to avoid damage as the fill point is before the compressor. This is unlike the accumulator type systems found in GM vehicles where you can turn the can upside down and fill it pretty quick since the liquid goes into the accumulator first.

 

Hudini, thanks that is good detail and I was wondering about when to put the oil in and when to vacuum. Now I just need to find the vacuum equipment.

 

Harbor Freight has a nice low cost vacuum pump that I've used for years. It easily pulls down to 30" and holds it.

Electric Vacuum Pump - 2.5 CFM

 

Yes I see that Harbor Freight has both the vacuum pump and the manifold gauges. I went to order the oil from RMEuropean but I can't seem to figure out what brand A/C compressor is in the car (no labels). Can I just use Ester Oil?

Vacuum Pump - AC Vacuum Pump w/ R134A & R12 Connectors

 

Isn't PAG 100 oil used in R134a cars from the factory?

 

I called the dealer and they said use PAG 150 oil. I asked about the 100 and they said "no use the 150". So I bought a 8oz container. I'm thinking I only need to pour in half.