GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Air Conditioning Compressor Replacement LR4, LM7, L59 and LQ4

Tools Required

J 39400-A Halogen Leak Detector

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 370869  Size: SH
  1. Recover the refrigerant. Refer to Refrigerant Recovery and Recharging .
  2. Install a ratchet into the air conditioning (A/C) belt tensioner adapter opening.
  3. Rotate the A/C belt tensioner clockwise in order to relieve the tension on the belt.
  4. Remove the A/C belt from the A/C compressor.
  5. Slowly release the tension on the A/C belt tensioner.
  6. Remove the right front tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  7. Remove the wheel house panel from the vehicle. Refer to Wheelhouse Panel Replacement in Body Front End.
  8. Remove the discharge hose bolt from the A/C compressor.
  9. Remove the discharge hose from the A/C compressor.
  10. Remove the suction hose bolt from the A/C compressor.
  11. Remove the suction hose from the A/C compressor.
  12. Discard the sealing washers. Cap all of the openings.
  13. Disconnect the electrical connections.

  14. Object Number: 648141  Size: SH
  15. Remove the A/C compressor mounting bolts. The lower right bolt (3) will stay with the compressor due to a lack of clearance.
  16. Remove the A/C compressor (2) from the bracket (1).
  17. If replacing the A/C compressor. Refer to Air Conditioning Compressor Oil Balancing .

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 648141  Size: SH
  1. Install the A/C compressor (2) to the bracket (1) through the fender well. Insert the mounting bolt (3) into the lower right mounting boss before installing the A/C compressor.
  2. Install the A/C compressor to the bracket. Insert the mounting bolt into the lower right mount before installing the A/C compressor.
  3. 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.

  4. Install the A/C compressor mounting bolts.
  5. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 50 N·m (37 lb ft).

  6. Connect the electrical connector to the A/C compressor.
  7. Install the A/C discharge hose to the compressor using new sealing washers. Refer to Sealing Washer Replacement .
  8. Install the A/C discharge hose bolt to the A/C compressor.
  9. Tighten
    Tighten the bolt to 16 N·m (12 lb ft).

  10. Install the A/C suction hose to the compressor using new sealing washers. Refer to Sealing Washer Replacement .
  11. Install the A/C suction hose bolt to the A/C compressor.
  12. Tighten
    Tighten the bolt to 16 N·m (12 lb ft).

  13. Install the wheel house panel to the vehicle. Refer to Wheelhouse Panel Replacement in Body Front End.
  14. Install the right front tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  15. Install the A/C drive belt. Refer to Air Conditioning Compressor Belt Replacement in Engine Mechanical - 4.8L, 5.3L, and 6.0L.
  16. Evacuate and recharge the A/C system. Refer to Refrigerant Recovery and Recharging .
  17. Leak test the fittings of the component using the J 39400-A .