So my compressor is toast (see another thread). I have an '86 GL with Hitachi compressor. My local parts yard has used compressors for sale with a 60 day money-back guarantee. The price is great compared to reman. Are used compressors any good?

Depends on the vehicle they came from and how they have been handled since being removed.

 

That's like asking "are used cars any good?"

 

GD

i've replaced numerous a/c compressors, used every single time. 100% sucess rate so far, it's well worth it considering how easy they are to replace and how rarely they fail. i'd rather replace them twice than spend for a new one. i recharge all my own stuff too, it's very simple.

Okay, I was hoping to hear that somebody has had success with installing a used compressor. With the money back warranty, I can't see how it would hurt to try it out, since I'll have a bit of time next weekend.

As with a lot of things, it also depends on what part of the country you are in. I would imagine that AC compressors are much more likely to wear out in Florida, Southern CA, etc. Here in OR/WA they are mostly used for defrost. I don't see a lot of failures but I've seen a couple.

 

GD

if i removed the compressor personally , and it was still under pressure, I would trust it.

yeh , if the system still has pressure its probably OK . The Jap compressors usually hold up really well .

 

If the internals of the old compressor exploded , you better flush the system or you'll suck the metal shavings in the replacement compressor and it wont do it any good . You are supposed to change the dryer too ... but I've reused the old ones sometimes with no problem if money is tight . Definately change it if the compressor grenaded .

 

c-bob