Receiver Drier Question

[Sam Thompson]

I have a 1986 BMW 325es. I have been rebuilding and converting the air conditioner to r134a, but I have a question. Last year, I replaced all the seals, expansion valve, and receiver drier. The system ended up leaking through the condenser and compressor, and therefore, I was unable to use it last year. In the past few weeks, I have been rebuilding the system with a new condenser and I rebuilt the compressor; however, I still have the one year old receiver drier. When I removed the compressor this winter, there was still a small amount of pressure in the system, so I covered the inlets to the receiver drier in order to be able to reuse it. I had the compressor off for only 3 days and now the system is together, but I have to get it evacuated again before I recharge. My question regards the receiver drier: do you think it is necessary to replace it, or should I replace it too?
Thanks for any advice.
P.S. What would be a normal operating vent temperature of a converted a/c system in a Ohio summer (85 degrees)?

Topic

[Lincoln]

I would assume on the side of it being bad depending on cost. With the probable cost of what you have already put into it, spending $50 or less on a receiver dryer is worth it. While the system was apart did you have the receiver dryer capped or left open? If it was left open then definitely replace it.

[college man]

see if this helps.

http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq/solving-automotive-hvac-problems

[EricTheCarGuy]

If it’s in question and it’s affordable I say replace it. Also, be sure to make sure the system holds vacuum before you charge it up. If it can’t hold vacuum, it can’t hold a refrigerant charge. Details in the above article.

Good luck and keep us posted.

[Author]

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