GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 39400-A Halogen Leak Detector

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 48314  Size: SH
  1. Remove the air cleaner. Refer to Air Cleaner Assembly Replacement in Engine Controls - 4.3L.
  2. Remove the upper fan shroud bolts.
  3. Remove the upper fan shroud.
  4. Recover the refrigerant from the system. Refer to Refrigerant Recovery and Recharging .

  5. Object Number: 573938  Size: SH
  6. Disconnect the electrical connector (1) from the A/C compressor.
  7. Release the drive belt tensioner and remove the drive belt from the A/C compressor.
  8. Remove the engine cover. Refer to Engine Cover Replacement in Interior Trim.
  9. Remove the oil fill tube bolt.
  10. Remove the oil fill tube.

  11. Object Number: 573960  Size: SH
  12. Disconnect the electrical connector (2) from the A/C compressor high pressure cutoff switch.

  13. Object Number: 573934  Size: SH
  14. Remove the compressor hose assembly bolt (3).
  15. Remove the compressor hose assembly from the compressor.
  16. Remove and discard the seal washers.

  17. Object Number: 637073  Size: SH
  18. Remove the compressor brace bolt (1).
  19. Remove the compressor mounting bolts (2).
  20. Remove the compressor brace.
  21. Remove the compressor from the vehicle.
  22. If replacing the A/C compressor, the refrigerant oil must be balanced. Refer to Compressor Oil Balancing .

Installation Procedure

    Important: The compressor is shipped without oil.

  1. If replacing the compressor, add the refrigerant oil to the compressor.

  2. Object Number: 637073  Size: SH
  3. Install the compressor to the vehicle.
  4. Install the compressor brace.
  5. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  6. Install the compressor mounting bolts (2).
  7. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 50 N·m (37 lb ft).

  8. Install the compressor brace bolt (1).
  9. Tighten
    Tighten the bolt to 25 N·m (18 lb ft).

  10. Install new seal washers. Refer to Sealing Washer Replacement .
  11. Install the compressor hose assembly to the compressor.

  12. Object Number: 573934  Size: SH
  13. Install the compressor hose assembly bolt (3).
  14. Tighten
    Tighten the bolt to 34 N·m (25 lb ft).


    Object Number: 573960  Size: SH
  15. Connect the electrical connector (2) to the A/C compressor high pressure cutoff switch.
  16. Install the oil filler tube.
  17. Install the oil filler tube bolt.
  18. Tighten
    Tighten the bolt to 25 N·m (18 lb ft).

  19. Release the drive belt tensioner and install the drive belt to the A/C compressor.
  20. Install the engine cover. Refer to Engine Cover Replacement in Interior Trim.

  21. Object Number: 573938  Size: SH
  22. Connect the electrical connectors (1) to the A/C compressor.
  23. Evacuate and recharge the refrigerant system. Refer to Refrigerant Recovery and Recharging .
  24. Leak test the fittings of the component using the J 39400-A .

  25. Object Number: 48314  Size: SH
  26. Install the upper fan shroud.
  27. Install the upper fan shroud bolts.
  28. Tighten
    Tighten the bolt to 15 N·m (11 lb in).

  29. Install the air cleaner. Refer to Air Cleaner Assembly Replacement in Engine Controls - 4.3L.