Its a 2004 S type with 4.2 engine. Im kinda coming up dry on any info or step by step how to replace the AC compressor. I know it wont be easy, heck you cant even really see it. Any help will be appreciated.

 

Lift front end. Properly support vehicle with stands. Remove under tray. From underneath front, compressor will be to your left.

Remove serpentine belt.
Lift vehicle.
Disconnect electric harness.
​​​​​​Loosen 4 bolts, I believe 3 of the 4 will come out before compressor can be lowered from vehicle.

There is a DIY in the "How To's" for a 3.0 removal. Only difference is the V8 is a lot tighter work space.

 

I have done it several times and my best suggestion is to unbolt both engine mounts and use a floor jack to raise the engine. Use a piece of plywood on the bottom of the oil pan to protect the pan. This is NOT in the shop manual.

You will be amazed at how far the engine will come up and of course be careful and watch for anything catching. Replace the dryer too as that's required for your compressor warranty. Don't forget to split the oil and put half in the compressor and half in the dryer. We have a real strange dryer too, it's just a sack with desiccate in it.

And be thankful you don't have the "R" version like I do because it's a whole lot more work because of the reinforced sub-frame that's in the way!

One trick I do is put the oil in the compressor and turn it over by hand several times. Then I place the compressor with the pulley face down on the bench for at least 30 minutes. This is an attempt to make sure the shaft seal is fully lubricated before the initial start. Not sure it does anything but I still do it.

Do you have the free JTIS? It's the factory service manual and will be useful in many other ways beside this repair..
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Bringing this thread back from the dead...

On an '05 STR, what additional steps need to be taken to remove the compressor? Does the subframe need to be dropped (to bring it out the bottom), or does the power steering pump need to be removed to bring it out the front?

Thanks,
Jeff

 

In response to my own question and for those STR owners willing to take on this project...

Leave the power steering pump and the subframe attached. The pump will exit toward the rear after you've removed the power steering rack and the left-side motor mount, and then jacked the engine as high as it will go. Pulling the low pressure line and manifold toward the left front tire will give you a little more room to maneuver up and over the pipe and past the power steering hoses. As with all STR engine compartment work, you will need to be creative to gain access to bolts, hoses, and clamps. Best of luck!

 

REMOVE THE POWER STEERING RACK???

are you chitting me? I need to do this job today. Damn

how much refrigerant does a 06 STR take?

 

Remember to also replace the dryer dessicant as well whenever the compressor is replaced.

The refrigerant is by weight, not volume nor pressure readings.

Best to have the system recharged by an automotive air conditioning specialist.

 

thanks for all that. I am an automotive air conditioning specialist.

I just need the weight and guidance if the steering rack has go come out!

 

On my 06 str the sticker reads 1lb 11oz...plus or minus 2 oz....i think the rack is...remove tie rod connections at steering knuckle...then the big mounting bolts and drop rack down and secure

 

thanks!

 

On my old STR I never touched the steering rack. I did remove the PS pump for more working room.
But if you follow what I posted above the real trick is to remove the motor mount bolts and jack the engine up carefully to get working room.
It makes a big difference especially on the R which is a bunch more difficult do to all the extra stuff.
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Bringing this thread back. I just finished replacing all the hoses on my front end and noticed that the compressor pulley appears to be touching the subframe. Is it possible someone just misadjusted the compressor mounting? Can I possibly loosen the bolts and slide it up slightly?

 

no. There is no slop in the mounting. It can only bolt in at one location. Not adjustable. Maybe its the wrong compressor since the v8 compressor has different mounting pads. Or you have bad motor mounts

 

Yes and possibly you got a 6 cylinder compressor?
We had a thread that showed the differences and unless they are side by side you really can't tell.

Here it is;
AC Compressor Differences

The 6 cylinder one has a wider mounting boss and would move the compressor a bit but you also would need different mounting bolts too.
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