1996 SE AC question

[Pilgar]

I have a 96 SE, I have had it for three years, it sat for a year before I got it. The AC has never worked, it has never even turned on that I could tell. The compressor sometimes makes rude noises that sound like bearings being eaten up.

Anyway I am thinking of doing the repair myself, I have a new compressor, new drier, new orifice tube and a gasket set and compressor oil.

I am pretty handy, I did the LIM and Plenum fix myself.

But, I don't know what really needs replaced and replacing the parts behind the dash sounds really intense.

Also I haven't located a good manual or instruction set for this repair.

So does anyone know of a video or manual to use, or have any other advice on this project?

Do folks think I will need to replace all the AC components since the car sat for about a year before I bought it or am I likely to only need the ones I have. Should I do this or take it in to a shop?

Regards,
James

[Pilgar]

Well so much for the Pontiac Bonneville Club, there used to be a club where folks either answered with a tutorial or at least pointed you in the right direction. Or at the very least left a snide remark!!

[charlie1593]

you will need a vacuum to evacuate the system after you have opened it up and replaced all the parts. You will also need a set of manifold gauges to properly charge the system with freon. I would probably not attempt this without the service manual for this vehicle. It can be obtained on CD on Ebay for less than $10. Good luck and soon you will be able to keep cool.