Radiators Jammed with Cr@p

[Mini-Me]

Been done a hundred times no doubt but;
With all the worry about overheating = potential for bore score etc.

My aircon was pretty poor as far as output was concerned. So, following an unsuccessful re-gas, I decided to fit new condensers as I suspected a leak in that area.
It was only when I removed the condensers that I realised just how much detritus/cr@p had built up between condensers and radiators :nooo:
This rubbish had rotted the off-side condenser core.

I would also estimate that at least 25% of the engine's cooling capacity was inhibited by the rubbish build up.

It may be a good idea to clean out between the two units on an interval basis even if it means removing the condensers and the resulting re-gas of the aircon.
Thanks to Kwikfit Warringon for the prompt and efficient re-gas.

 

[poorleno]

is their a tutorial on how to remove the bumper and what tools are needed?

 

[T8]

is their a tutorial on how to remove the bumper and what tools are needed?

>> http://911uk.com/viewtopic.php?t=61995&start=0&postdays=0&postorder=asc&highlight=

If in doubt - always refer to the 996FAQs.

 

[Maxie]

is their a tutorial on how to remove the bumper and what tools are needed?

>> http://911uk.com/viewtopic.php?t=61995&start=0&postdays=0&postorder=asc&highlight=

If in doubt - always refer to the 996FAQs.

This is for the 996. I think Poorleno was asking this question in relevance to a 997 so this thread may be more applicable:

http://911uk.com/viewtopic.php?t=86467

~ Maxie

 

[T8]

This is for the 996. I think Poorleno was asking this question in relevance to a 997 so this thread may be more applicable:

http://911uk.com/viewtopic.php?t=86467

~ Maxie

:coat:

:thumb:

 

[elliot_holder]

Easy job

Is it a DIY job to replace condensers? Suspect I will need to do the same to mine shortly, and it's on my list of things to do over the winter whilst she is tucked up in the garage.

Any guides or how to's?

 

[Mini-Me]

Re: Easy job

Is it a DIY job to replace condensers? Suspect I will need to do the same to mine shortly, and it's on my list of things to do over the winter whilst she is tucked up in the garage.

Any guides or how to's?

Yes, it's definitely a DIY job.
With respect, the very good write up quoted above (http://911uk.com/viewtopic.php?t=86467) is more weighted towards fitting a 3rd radiator and there are parts of that process that are not required for condenser removal/replacement.
Removing front bumper and condensers, cleaning radiators and fitting new condensers was, for me, a morning and part afternoon job. I've never worked on this car before and it was pretty simple.
The car was re-gassed by 4:30pm.
I'm happy to share some shortcuts with anyone that's interested.

 

[elliot_holder]

Re: Easy job

Is it a DIY job to replace condensers? Suspect I will need to do the same to mine shortly, and it's on my list of things to do over the winter whilst she is tucked up in the garage.

Any guides or how to's?

Yes, it's definitely a DIY job.
With respect, the very good write up quoted above (http://911uk.com/viewtopic.php?t=86467) is more weighted towards fitting a 3rd radiator and there are parts of that process that are not required for condenser removal/replacement.
Removing front bumper and condensers, cleaning radiators and fitting new condensers was, for me, a morning and part afternoon job. I've never worked on this car before and it was pretty simple.
The car was re-gassed by 4:30pm.
I'm happy to share some shortcuts with anyone that's interested.

Thanks - did condensers need to be discharged before removal? Guessing there would still be refrigerant in them. If not, sounds very possible as a DIY

 

[Mini-Me]

Re: Easy job

Is it a DIY job to replace condensers? Suspect I will need to do the same to mine shortly, and it's on my list of things to do over the winter whilst she is tucked up in the garage.

Any guides or how to's?

Yes, it's definitely a DIY job.
With respect, the very good write up quoted above (http://911uk.com/viewtopic.php?t=86467) is more weighted towards fitting a 3rd radiator and there are parts of that process that are not required for condenser removal/replacement.
Removing front bumper and condensers, cleaning radiators and fitting new condensers was, for me, a morning and part afternoon job. I've never worked on this car before and it was pretty simple.
The car was re-gassed by 4:30pm.
I'm happy to share some shortcuts with anyone that's interested.

Thanks - did condensers need to be discharged before removal? Guessing there would still be refrigerant in them. If not, sounds very possible as a DIY

The off-side condenser had corroded so most of the gas and lubricant had escaped. When I disconnected the first condenser there was a slight pressure release only.
New condensers were around £120 for the pair. I fitted a new desiccant/dryer (£25) for good measure (10 min job) and new O-rings (£5) all round.
Re-gas was £45.
Aircon is cold as ice now (just in time for winter :frustrated: ) but more importantly I'm happy that the engine cooling radiators are clean and efficient.

 

[Red993C4]

Re: Easy job

Aircon is cold as ice now (just in time for winter :frustrated: ) but more importantly I'm happy that the engine cooling radiators are clean and efficient.

Look on the bright side: a) a fully-functional AC will be a great benefit in keeping the windscreen and windows demisted in winter, even if you have the thermostat set at a comfortable cabin temperature, and b) being able to run the AC system regularly keeps the compressor seals lubricated, so they are less prone to early failure.

 

[E4BRT]

Have any of you guys tried zun sport grilles to prevent the leaves going in?

 

[Martian]

Have any of you guys tried zun sport grilles to prevent the leaves going in?

Yes, I have them and they are very good.

I was out in my car this afternoon and leaves were blowing around everywhere, it was nice not having to worry about my car vacuuming them all up!

 

[E4BRT]

An easy mod too

 

[Maxie]

Yes, I have Zunsport grilles on the sides. I have a Halfords mesh grill on the centre.





~ Maxie