I am considering removing my dashboard to clean, service, repair(?) the AC.in my ''90 Majestic.
The AC works fairly well, however after 33 years (build date 11/89) I'm thinking that it's time for a disassemble and clean. Cleaned out the drain tubes yesterday and this doesn't
last long, generally. So, I'm considering a dash disassemble to expose the AC system for a complete, first class clean out and service.
Any advice?
Are the results worth the effort?
Thanks!

 

I have only ever replaced the 1993/94 sedan evaporators for LEAKING when the R134a refrigerant was introduced.
Those were always leaking but the R12 (up to MY 1992) were reliable.

It is a pretty big job to remove/replace the climate control unit from the bulkhead but take pictures and label wires unless you have done it before.
Helps to have a helper for the dashboard out the front doors.

 

Thank you!
Roger

 

If you just want to clean around the evaporator, you can do that by removing the side floor vents. Just the driver's side would probably be enough. Put a low pressure hose in there and give it a good blast of water or soap/water/disinfectant mixture. Have the floor mats out and give the evap area a good rinse. You'll have a quantity of dirty liquid/decayed foam/general crap solution to clean up and mop up out of the climate control and footwells, but far less work than pulling out the whole CC. Almost everything in the dash/console area has to be removed, plus all disconnections from the engine compartment before you can take out the CC.

Been there done that, but only when dismantling my parts car.

Larry

 

Thank you Larry, I only need to give it a good cleaning. The A/C works fine no need to remove everything.
I will try your suggestion.
Roger

 

Hi Roger,

I agree that removing the dash is enough work that I wouldn't do it just to clean around the evaporator and heater core. But if, for example, your defroster flaps are broken, or your A/C drains are so clogged below the evaporator that you just can't keep them clean, it may be worth the effort. Here's what our '93 looked like with the dash out:





Removing the Climate Control Unit would require considerably more work beyond this point.

Cheers,

Don

 

I've learned with Jaguars over the years, when they are going perfectly, enjoy the moment and don't interfere. Something will inevitably turn up that HAS to be fixed.

Give the keys to a friend and go lie down in a darkened room until the madness passes.

Graham

 

I'm afraid I have to agree with Graham on this one. Over the years I have had to actively invoke the "if it ain't broke" theory, and I think I've gotten far more use from all of them for it -- even though they have "quirks".

 

I agree, I took the easy way out cleaned out the drain tubes and all is "well" for now...?
I also agree with Graham. I stick to the maintenance schedule without deviation and if it ain't broke I don't fix it.
My 33 year old "executive saloon" runs like I just picked it up from the dealer.
Thank you