I'm working on getting an old '98 BMW 3 series back to daily driver status and the A/C is the next item on the list to restore to working order. When I plug an A/C manifold set in, I'm getting a slightly higher reading pressure when static on the high side. Low is about 89psi and high is showing 100psi. Running, the low side does not change and the high side barely changes and it does look like the clutch is engaged and compressor turning. The system was flat when I started, so I pulled a vacuum on it for about 30 minutes and it held pressure for another 30 minutes, so the system seems tight.
Right now, I'm thinking that the compressor is shot. Question is, should I replace the expansion valve at the same time? I'm thinking that I should, since if the compressor is shot, there's a good chance that debris might be blocking the EV. That could be the reason behind the offset static pressures. I hate getting into the dash area unless needed though, but unless I'm wrong, I think that it's needed. It adds less than $50 to the cost and a few hours of work.
Right now, I'm thinking that the compressor is shot. Question is, should I replace the expansion valve at the same time? I'm thinking that I should, since if the compressor is shot, there's a good chance that debris might be blocking the EV. That could be the reason behind the offset static pressures. I hate getting into the dash area unless needed though, but unless I'm wrong, I think that it's needed. It adds less than $50 to the cost and a few hours of work.