DB9 aircon condenser replacement

[Philip0]

Has anyone had their DB9 a/c condenser replaced by an aircon specialist as opposed to a AM dealer? My DB9 has a small leak and the dealer has asked for a small fortune to replace it. Is it a straightforward job for an aircon specialist to replace the condenser with a new one?

[bomberh]

Out of interest, how much are they asking?

[Philip0]

Over £800!!

[AMDBSNick]

I know it might mean a drive out but have you considered one of the indies? Must be a while you wait job.

[bomberh]

Philip0 said:

Over £800!!

Thanks for letting me know.

I had this issue which was picked up on my last service. There were a few other things too, I am glad I have extended warranty, as I think it paid for itself.

Edited by bomberh on Friday 27th March 13:02

[Philip0]

So, can an aircon specialist do the job? What needs to be removed from the car to get the condenser out (e.g. front bumper)?

[8Tech]

Yes, any competant AC specialist should be able to replace the condenser. Its only a radiator after all, and once the remaining R134a refrigerant has been recovered, if there is any left, it should be a simple task to remove he slam panel and lift out the condenser.

No more than a couple of hours and a regas.

[Sump]

It's really easy, just that slam panel and some wiggling.

Budget 2 hours labour.

[Sump]

[Philip0]

Sump said:

It's really easy, just that slam panel and some wiggling.

Budget 2 hours labour.

Thank you, Sump - what's the "slam panel"?

[Sump]

Philip0 said:

Sump said:

It's really easy, just that slam panel and some wiggling.

Budget 2 hours labour.

Thank you, Sump - what's the "slam panel"?

It's just that bit that has the final inspection plaque on it. The big metal cover at the front when you open the bonnet.

Held down by a bunch of torx bolts.

[CAPP0]

Thread resurrection! I'm just about to tackle mine.

In the extract from the manual above it states to drain the engine coolant; it then says remove the connections to the condenser and extract it. Why then does the coolant need draining, if the engine rad remains in place? I'm clearly missing something but not sure what!

[paulrog1]

I removed mine a couple of years ago. You need to goto an aircon garage and get it de-gassed then once home remove the slam panel and undo the 2 pipe connections on the left hand side then wiggle the condenser out.

Careful not to damage the engine rad, no need to dump the coolant.

Make sure to replace the rubber orings on the pipe connections on reassembly.

Once complete take the car to get it regassed.

Edited by paulrog1 on Sunday 27th June 15:52

[CAPP0]

Yes, mine's out now and as you say, no need to drain the coolant. There was no gas in mine anyway (well, the slightest puff as I undid the unions). Easy job actually.

Now need to order a replacement. I know Scuderia and AMBits do them, are there any "equivalent" alternatives?

[Philip0]

I got mine from AM Bits, but had to return one which was damaged, so check carefully.