2003 X5 Another nitty gritty detail about my A/C DIY project

[Meestahbig]

Hi.

so I am all set, got the tools and all the info I need to pull out my compressor. My question is this... if I can't fix the compressor (meaning it is not the small microtemp fuse that is blown) and need a new clutch/compressor... can I drive the car around for a few days without the AC compressor in the car?

I know I will take the AC belt off... I think that is fine. I will plug up the lines so nothing gets inside. I will also change the receiver/dryer at the end. I know it's not good for the system to have air/moisture in it, but I guess for a few days, it will be fine... I assume I might need to stabilize the lines a but where I disconnect them from the compressor, so they are not flopping around and getting bent/banged.

Anything else I need to consider regarding this? thank you.

[David.X5]

Think you've got it covered. You could also removal the belt and leave the compressor in place so the system stays sealed up. I would pull vacuum for an extended time to help dry it out if you do have to leave it open.

[upallnight]

Since you will need to reinstall the compressor back onto the engine to see if the thermal fuse is working I would just connect all the hose back onto the compressor. If it doesn't work and you need to swap out a new/use compressor, I would leave the old compressor with the hose attach until you have the new compressor. Getting dirt and water into the AC system is not something that you want to do, and if you do get dirt and water into the open hoses you will need to flush out the hoses or replace the hoses. Not worth the risk in my book, but hey it's your car.