Why do compressors fail?

In most cases the reason you are fitting a reconditioned and guaranteed compressor is that the old or original compressor has "GONE DOWN", therefore you must ask yourself why did this happen?

Compressors do not fail for unexplained reasons so be assured that if you fit a compressor without answering the "WHY" question and without following the correct installation procedure this compressor will also "GO DOWN" causing you unnecessary losses in both time and money. So, why did the old unit fail?

The three most likely causes for compressors to seize are:

  1. EXCESSIVE HEAD PRESSURE
    In the case of excessive head pressure the three reasons for this are:
  • BLOCKAGE IN SYSTEM
    Check dryer, T.X. Valve, Condenser (internally)
  • OVERCHARGE IN THE SYSTEM
    Some compressors are extremely susceptible to this
  • OVERPRESSURE IN THE SYSTEM
    Inadequate car cooling system, clogged condenser fins (external), defective thermo fan or fan clutch, excessive moisture in system, a cocktail of refrigerants.
  1. LACK OF OIL
    In the case of lack of oil the two reasons for this are:
  • SYSTEM BLOCKAGE
    restrictive flow of oil back to the compressor (i.e. tx valve, receiver/dryer, condenser, freezing evaporator)
  • SYSTEM LEAK
    allowing the oil to escape from the system.
  1. LACK OF REFRIGERANT (COMPRESSOR OVERHEATS)
    Slow leaks allow the system to run with low liquid supply to tx valve. The suction return gas to the compressor is not cold enough to cool the compressor parts internally. Shaft seals harden and leak, oil deteriorates and metal parts fail.

Once you have found and rectified the reason for the old compressor failure, follow this procedure for the installation of the new unit to ensure trouble free running.

  1. FLUSH THE SYSTEM 2-3 TIMES WITH HyChill ECO-FLUSH
    It cannot be stressed strongly enough that if a compressor has had a burnout depositing sludge and debris through the system, this sludge will simply work its way back to the compressor if it is not removed.
  2. REPLACE T.X. VALVE
  3. REPLACE RECEIVER DRYER
  4. EVACUATE SYSTEM FOR CHARGING AND TESTING

When compressor oil is replaced it should match the refrigerant to be used.
HyChill SRO 500 lubricant is compatible with all refrigerants.
HyChill Minus 30 Refrigerant is compatible with most commonly used oils.