Q: How to remove and install a condenser in an air conditioning system?
A: To remove and install a condenser in an air conditioning system, it is recommended to have an air conditioning technician discharge and recover the refrigerant. The process involves removing the radiator grille and, for older models, the hood latch. The refrigerant lines should be disconnected from the condenser and the open ends plugged to prevent dirt or moisture from entering. On newer models, the outside air temperature sensor electrical connector and mounting bracket should also be removed. The condenser can then be removed by taking out the mounting bolts. For installation, if the original condenser is being used, it should be stored in a way that prevents refrigerant oil from draining out. If a new condenser is being installed, one ounce of compatible refrigerant oil should be poured into it before installation. The process is then reversed, ensuring that new sealing washers are used for the hoses on newer models. Finally, the system should be evacuated, recharged, and leak tested by the shop that discharged the refrigerant.