When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Hey! I'm trying to replace the ac compressor on my ep3 without dropping the subframe. I've heard it can be done similar to how the alternator is done. That is, up through the passenger headlight by moving back the radiator. However, upon taking everything off, the very last bolt to complete this removal seems to be impossible to remove as it is blocked by the subframe. Again I'm novice so I'm trying to avoid dropping the subframe even a little. Any ideas? I'll attach a image of the bolt and of the bar circled in red if I can figure out how.
Thanks!
The ac compressor bolt pointed to in red The bar blocking it(subframe?) Highlighted in red.
Undo an engine mount, raise or lower the engine, and then get the bolt? That's what I would try
This may be a dumb question but you said "an engine mount". Could I undo a singular corner? I'd probably only need an inch or two. But I'd need a cherry picker for that would I not?
Whichever mount is closest, probably where the belt and pulleys are. 2x4 and a floor jack under the oil pan.
Won't damae the engine? I've always assumed the oil pan wouldn't be able to hold the weight of the engine. I suppose it's got the 3 other mounts though in this situation? Thanks by the way!
So before I try the "lift the engine" idea, I found a YouTube video of someone doing this by completely removing the radiator which gave him access to the bolts from the front looking back. Is there a chance someone here can confirm it's possible this way? I'm unable to try either way until Friday due to some upcoming events this week.
Was able to do it by removing the radiator completely and then was able to access the bolts from the front looking back. I was nervous to drop the subframe or mess with motor mounts because I live in the rust belt and bolts snapping and/or rusting out is extremely common
You're more likely to break a radiator support bracket bolt than any engine mount or subframe bolt. But I understand what you're saying. I'm in Ohio and deal with rusty and crusty bolts all the time.
You're more likely to break a radiator support bracket bolt than any engine mount or subframe bolt. But I understand what you're saying. I'm in Ohio and deal with rusty and crusty bolts all the time.
