wvbackhoeman
10-04-2006, 05:36 PM
I am considering buying a used 98 Dodge Grand Caravan but the seller indicates the HVAC evaporator is cracked - so the AC doesn't work.
Does any one know if 1) this is a dangerous condition and 2) how extensive the repair/cost is to fix this problem?
Thank you in advance for your help.
acton mike
10-04-2006, 07:06 PM
if the evaporator is cracked, presumably all the refrigerant has escaped and as you have rightly pointed out, the a/c is inoperative.
In that condition, there is no hazard or danger
a new evaporator is costly and if my memory serves me well, you will have to dismantle just about the entire dash to get at it which is labour intensive
you will need a new receiver/dryer and depending on how long the system has been open to the air, the compressor may well be done like dinner
i suppose you could make it a do it yourself project but you will need some specialized equipment such as a set of refrigeration gauges and a vacuum pump
I do not recommend refitting an a/c system as a DIY project
I do not wish to put you off but unless you live in a part of the country that is hotter than hell, beastly humid, or both I suggest you do as i do and drive with the windows down
Oh - I now see that you are thinking about buying the vehicle
in that case it comes down to whether or not the price you pay for the vehicle makes it economical feasible to get the a/c fixed or if the price is right and you can live without air
it all boils down to economics my man
