[cmoc-bob]

I don't think deep vacuum works with desicant.

They typically get "baked" to remove moisture.

Like the separate beads on a baking sheet in your oven. Desicant beads are used in air compressor paint system drying systems.

So, replace it or rebuild what your have.

[gto4ben]

If it's an OEM version, the desiccant material will be XH-5 and not compatible with HFC134a. Since you're using R12, that concern is off the table.

A new unit left open to the atmosphere will also be exposed to ambient contaminants such as dust, soot, ozone, and other gases, none of which will be good. If the descicant bag deteriorated, that material will circulate in the system and be difficult to cleanse.

I once tried to reuse a drier. I pulled a vacuum and even warmed up the cylinder with a heat gun. I still got the black death coming out of it.

Today, I would have the receiver-drier cleaned & refurbished with new desiccant. I believe Classic Auto Air performs that service but the lead time is very long. I've got four of my driers waiting for it.

[dataway]

Thanks folks, I'll a new drier on the parts list.

[dataway]

Just a quick PSA for anyone doing this job.

If you leave the pan with 4 or 5 oz of mineral oil from a hanging/draining 50 year old compressor sitting on the floor .... your 7 month old puppy will drink it.

Called the vet, they said, mehhh, don't worry about it, she'll poop greasy for a few days.

What a garbage disposal this puppy is, no telling what kind of additives or nastiness was in that stuff, it was like desert to her, and she never missed a beat, right as rain after 24 hours.

Told the wife, now no puppies in the shop unless she is supervising them.