Does anyone have any tips to removing the A/C compressor on a 1996 850T? I'm having a difficult time getting access to the mounting bolts. If anyone has done this job please tell me you tricks. Thank you.

Well, I'm not sure how much knowledge you have on working on cars, but I have done this, twice, and it isn't too difficult if you have the right tools and patience. You will need some air tools, because some of the mounting bolts would be almost impossible to remove without the air assistance.

First I would disconnect your battery (as you will need to disonnect and reconnect some wires on the compressor itself.

Second jack the car and safely secure it, and it might help you to gain access to remove the passenger side front wheel so you can remove the plastic bolt and bend the plastic guard back to gain more access.

You can also unbolt the bracket that holds on the a/c evaporator so you can maneuver the compressor around once you have it unbolted.

Next I would remove the serpentine belt, and then get in there with your airtools and remove those bolts. (There are 4 of them) They will probably be difficult to remove, as if this is the first time this has happened there will be all the miles on the bolts too, which means they'll be very tight, so the airtools are a must.

I gotta run for the moment, i'll post more later when i get home. :)


'96 850

-Brad

Thank you for your tips. I finished the job over the weekend. I had to remove the radiator to get access to the inboard compressor bolts. The bolts near the serpentine belt I was able to get to through by removing passenger side wheel and working though there. I wasn't able to use my airtool (impact wrench) because there is only about 2" clearance. I guess an air ratchet may have fit.
My compressor was fine, the bearing on the pulley was bad so I replaced that after moving the compressor for access.