Automotive Air Conditioning Information Forum

When I did a full R134a conversion on my 1989 BMW 325i I bought a re-manufactured AC compressor from 4 Seasons. It is very similar to this https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001B ... UTF8&psc=1

I changed the oil, rechagred etc and have always had a relatively fast leak - empties in about a week.

The system works very nicely when its just been recharged.

I changed many more components looking for this leak with my UV die and a sniffer.

I had not paid close attention to the compressor as a source of the leak since I spilled a little refrigerant in the area making it hard to spot a leak and it was "new". I just cleaned it then immediately saw some 'spray paint' like patterns of dye in the area. Specifically it looks like its coming from the clutch area.

Is ANY leakage to be expected in a high pressure system like this or should the compressor be absolutely spotless?

It looks quite clear to me that I have a leak at the front of the compressor that is being slung around by the pulley. I suppose this would be a compressor shaft seal?

Before I jump to the conclusion that the reman compressor is "bad" I want to consider if anything I could have done would lead to an over pressure condition. I replaced the expansion valve, receiver dryer, hi/lo switch. There was some re-wiring involved in the hi/lo switch (factory used two, current production is combined hi/lo). I know for sure the lo pressure cutout is working as the compressor does not engage when the system is empty. I believe the switch, being 1 wire, would operate correctly on the high side as well but have no way to test that.

4 seasons remans have a very poor record.

It was the best I could find, to replace the Nipponenso 10p.

If your old one spins. The compressor company we use can rebuild it. They have a much better product and reputation than 4 Seasons.

It spins just fine, it cools, it just leaks. What do they charge?

Around $250.00 have to check Monday.