stoneys4

so the condenser needs to be replaced in our s4

first off is this something i can do myself? i'm not a complete newb to working on cars, i have built 3 jeeps(sus, engine mods, ext).i have never worked on a ac system before thou. is this something a shop should do?

if a shop should do it what would a good guesstament be on labor? i already have the condenser.

can anyone recommend a good shop in NOVA(northern virginia) area to do it also?

jamesdmanley

you can do it yourself, but youll need specialty tools

donromani

The hardest part is going to be evacuating and refilling the system. You need to make sure the system will hold a vacuum after you put it back together. Most likely you will need to take it to a shop to get tested before you refill.

You also need to make sure you keep any opening covered as you remove the condensor from the piping. Getting dirt and moisture into the system is going to lead to costly repairs down the road. Make sure the replacement condesor stays in the packaging until you need it and seal off any openings on it to keep moisture out in the meantime.

Shop costs for this kind of work can get very expensive very quickly so DIY is tempting but risky. In my experience it is practically impossible to get an A/C system working at the original effeciency after the system has been opened.

jumpnofear

I had to get the evaporator done on mine and took it to a very good independant shop in NoVa - WB Motors. I'm not sure if they are willing to work with customer brought parts but it is worth calling Joe at 703 978 7000. You can mention Brad forwarded you and that with it being an S4 will ring a bell for him.

I ended up having the heater core done while they were that deep into the engine (just my personal history with blown heater cores and the struggles that follow). They are great guys, always show me any part removed, take time to discuss every step, etc. Good luck!.

stoneys4

is that shop over in alexandria off edsall and south pickett by the home depot?

jumpnofear

It is on Pickett near the skating rink between Little River turnpike and Lee Highway. website - http://www.wbmotorsinc.com/index.html