[cad58y]

72 GTO with factory AC, Blows cool but not cold. Local shop added Freon which didn't help. They said compressor was shot and want to replace the entire system for $4500 to $6500. Sounds like a Rip Off to me. What tests need to be done to determine exactly what is wrong and why not just replace the bad compressor?

[indymanjoe]

great questions. 4500-6500 they wont lose money. Hook up gauges and see what pressures are at. That will help answer some questions,but it will lead to more lol

[gpmodelj70]

Is this the original compressor?...drier could be partially stopped up and this would starve the evaporator for refrigerant...is the condenser in good condition and clean to allow for maximum airflow?...$4500 to $6500!!! that is beyond ripoff!

[Goatracer1]

Find an honest shop if you can't diagnose it yourself. Ask around there must be one near by. I installed a whole aftermarket AC system for about a $1000.

[cad58y]

Thanks for the replies. Unfortunately this is not my car. See "Flat Cam Issue 72 GTO" in the 70-72 GTO forum. Trying to help a club member not get ripped off. I think this is the original compressor and in my opinion the "performance shop" recognizes they have a owner with limited mechanical skills and can afford what ever they recommend. He was told they added some freon and it didn't help so give me a check for $4500 to $6500 and we can fix it.

[cad58y]

Since the system was converted to 134 isn't is a possibility that the original condenser is (1) old and (2) too small with inadequate air flow as it functions better on the road than in town?

[Lee]

I converted my '73 T/A clone to R134. I used a Sanden compressor, new parallel flow condenser, POA replaced with a pressure switch, new hoses, etc... basically reused the evaporator (cleaned and pressure checked), and heater. I spent less than a grand, and that included buying gauges and a vacuum pump!

Look for another shop.