Hello

97 Chevy Silverado/5.7/2WD/Ext Cab.


The AC blows hot air, has been like this for some time. I rarely drive it but summer coming and I plan to take the boat out a lot this summer....need my AC. It's all still original and I have a few extra bucks, was thinking about just overhauling it.

What are the main components you'd recommend I replace? Compressor, Accumulator...???

 

For a 1997, you are probably going to really spend some money to make it work RIGHT. If you have just one bad component and replace it, there is a chance that one of the other components may have gone bad by now.


On a positive note, taking care of it NOW might take less time and money than trying to fix it when the temperature gets up into the 90s.

 

Neither my same type of trucks have working AC. 98 Silverado and 96 Yukon...

 

I agree, find and fix the bad component. No need to do more than that.

Verify the ac compressor clutch is not engaging. The next step is to verify the charge level in the system. If it's low or empty, the system is leaking and you must locate the leak. Usually, leaks are found on the high side of the system as this side is exposed and under high pressure.

This type of testing can be difficult with ac equipment. I have seen people hook low pressure air to the service port ...70-100 psi and then spray soap solution on every line and component....then watch for bubbles.

You could also have a shop diag the problem for you...you could replace the parts and then they can charge it up for you.