Compressor discharge Too High

[241t]

1997 saturn sl the compressor clutch went bad so replaced with a 4 seasons rebuild. Also replaced the condenser (flushing solvent was almost as expensive as just replacing). Pulled vacuum and recharged with 12oz 134a. Compressor clutch engaged. Note: Full charge takes 24 oz but on charging the system the low side was 27-30 psi and high climbed to 350 psi plus so I stopped right there. Figured there was a blockage somewhere. Got a quart of solvent despite the cost and flushed the cabin evaporator. Fluid discharged without any hesitation. Installed new expansion valve and new dryer/receiver. Pulled vacuum and recharged with one can 12 0z again. Got the same high side readings again! Almost 400 psi. The two rubber hoses from the suction side and the high discharge line are open as I blew air through them. There is a hard aluminum line from the receiver/dryer to the expansion valve that has the safety pressure switch on it...I have not done anything with that line...is that where I should look? Or am I missing something else?

[Tim]

The system needs to be completely clean of debris. I would not trust a FS reman.

Refrigerant-134a
All Models .................... 0.68 kg (1.5 lb)

Important: Refer to the emissions certification label (Saturn Power Module) for proper amount of R-134a charge.

Polyalkaline Glycol (PAG) Refrigerant Oil
Air Conditioning System .................... 150 cc

[JohnHere]

I agree with the previous comment about the FS remanufactured compressor. Most if not all MVAC pros recommend installing only brand-new compressors.

You didn't have abnormally high pressures on the high side before you replaced the components (or at least I don't think you did). So another aspect comes to mind: Just because it's new doesn't mean the condenser is not defective. Inadvertently left-behind manufacturing debris could be blocking some of the passages.

Lastly, you didn't mention checking the electric fan's operation. But if it fails to come on with the system, the pressure on the high side will rise dramatically, indicating poor condensing.