A/C not charging, compressor not changing pressures.

[Mike]

A few months back I got into a car accident that punched a hole in the A/C condenser. The A/C was working fine before that point. This weekend I installed a new condenser and rented a vacuum pump and gauges from the parts store. I vacuumed the system for 45 min, let it sit for another 45. then tried to charge the system through the low side. The compressor would not come on. I then tried to charge it through the low and high side at the advice of a friend, still no compressor operation. I then jumped the compressor to ensure it could operate. it worked. So I tried to charge the system through the High and low side while jumping the compressor. while doing this both high and low side maintain a constant 95psi (tank pressure).

While trying to charge it through just the low side. the high side pressure never changed.

Before I jumped the compressor the gauges read the exact same thing as after I jumped the compressor. (95psi)

My thoughts are either the compressor is shot (but it worked up until the accident perfectly) or there is a restriction in the system. My question is how do I figure out which.

I need to get this A/C working as my fiancé is on medication that makes it dangerous for her to be in the heat for too long.

Topic

[Mike]

BTW, this is a 2000 honda civic EX

[Richard Kirshy]

Without knowing the exact extent of the damaged caused to the components by the accident.
Or how fluent you are with servicing automotive A/C .
Suggest you take to a certified A/C repair shop and have it evaluated.

[Author]

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