[Jagman06]

If a compressor has gone bad and gotten oil in the system what is involved in cleaning up the system? Can it be done at home or is special AC service equipment required? I assume the dryer must be replaced, is this done after the clean up?

[Jmark]

The A/C system has oil running in it along with the freon. If the compressor started shredding metal, then a complete flush of all parts will be in order. You will need to remove the drier and toss it. If you have an orifice tube, pull it too. If you have an expansion valve, remove while flushing. You can use lacquer thinner for flushing. Buy a gallon, it's cheaper that way. You can put about a cup into the condensor and then blow it out with your air compressor. Do this a couple of times. Same with the evap and hoses. It dries FAST and CLEAN. Then install your new drier, new orifice tube or re-install the expansion valve IF It's clean. Replace all o-rings and put in the recommended amount of AC oil. Put on the compressor, evacuate the system and charge.