1999/BMW 323i/ AC Compressor Replacement

I need to replace my AC compressor in my '99 323i sedan..... I have found a rebuilt one online for only $150 plus 25 for shipping... Can anyone help me on possible installation of this compressor... I do realize that I will need someone to charge it for me.... but other than that I am Mechanically inclined enough to do this... assuming I have the proper tools....

I would appreciate any advice! Thanks.

Ryan

Please... does anyone have any info on this... maybe even a manual online?

It might be a good idea to buy a repair manual for the car, it's valuable tool if you plan to keep the car for a while. I can't really give you too many specifics (because I really can't remember off the top of my head), but it is not too difficult to change. Is there any frion in the system, or has it all leaked out? If the system is charged, you will need to loosen a line to let the pressure escape, although you really should have it evacuated into a sealed container. I've seen guys pull off an a/c connection with the system charged, and it is something you don't want to do. As far as tools go, you will need a set of allen sockets, and a swivel adapter for you ratchet will help a lot. Let me know if you have any more questions.
-Andy

I have been licesened to charge and recover refrigerant... however you need to retake the test every 2 years I think, and besides I don't have the recovery tank or hoses for it... maybe I should just buy the compressor and have someone do the labor..... what is the goig rate for labor on a compressor?

Originally Posted by streetk14

It might be a good idea to buy a repair manual for the car, it's valuable tool if you plan to keep the car for a while. I can't really give you too many specifics (because I really can't remember off the top of my head), but it is not too difficult to change. Is there any frion in the system, or has it all leaked out? If the system is charged, you will need to loosen a line to let the pressure escape, although you really should have it evacuated into a sealed container. I've seen guys pull off an a/c connection with the system charged, and it is something you don't want to do. As far as tools go, you will need a set of allen sockets, and a swivel adapter for you ratchet will help a lot. Let me know if you have any more questions.
-Andy

I'd say probably about 3 hours labor charge to have someone evacuate the system, replace the compressor and charge the system. This is kind of a rough estimate, could be more or less.