So, after 4 years of perfect service, my replacement AC Delco AC compressor seized up yesterday. I replaced it originally because the OE compressor case developed a hairline split on a factory seam. The old AC leaked a tiny bit so instead of waiting for it to grenade and take other components out with it, I went ahead and replaced the compressor (using the mfg recommended oil type & qty) and had it recharged by a reputable shop. Everything was great until yesterday when the unit seized and started throwing sparks from the compressor clutch. I also see a bunch of oil from the compressor housing leaked onto the sway bar. I'll investigate this week but after spending $350 on an AC Delco unit, only to have it grenade 4 years into service (maybe 12,000 miles), I'm not real convinced that AC Delco replacements are much better than aftermarket. Rock auto doesn't carry the AC Delco unit at all. So my question is: Are the Rock Auto brands: UAC, GPD, Four Seasons and Valeo worth a damn? Any user experience?

 

I am in the same boat. My compressor was replaced by the previous owner. It shows the parts and labor on a receipt but no brand. I had to pull it down myself and recharge it to get it cool. I have no clue on what brand he bought, but money seemed to be no issue with him. From what I am reading all the compressors now are all junk.

 

Just did mine yesterday... ICE COLD!!
For 1998-2002 Pontiac Firebird A/C Compressor Kit 12788ZBND 1999 2000 2001 | eBay

 

My OE compressor ( 25 y/o, 80K mi) developed an oil leak in the seam as previously mentioned.. System was fine...

 

I bought a UAC brand, everyone said its China, but its good. $260.00. Never put it on though, the shop saw it had no oriface tube installed so that was my issue. I'll keep this compressor on the shelf for the future.

 

I put a Murray from O'Reilly Auto on my 03 Silverado several years back. Replaced the dryer and orifice tube and that thing blows COLD!

 

I always prefer delco compressors they last longer when the system is rebuilt correctly. But that said I've also used lots of napa and oreillys New only compressors for cars where the oe was no longer available. Do not ever use a rebuilt or their second line stuff.

Most important thing is replace the condenser, drier orifice tube and flush the evap using a solvent based ac flush. it would also be wise to replace the suction discharge hose assembly due to the age at this point and the discharge muffler catches lots of debris during failure and is hard to get cleaned out correctly.
new compressor, condenser,drier, orifice tube, suction discharge hose assembly flush evap and it will last for years. Cut any of these corners and it wont cool worth and damm and have a much shorter service life. You also have to do all of the above minus the suction discharge hose for anyone to honor the warranty.
Cold air ain't cheap air ever period

 

My original 2000 AC compressor was leaking a couple years back. The shop replaced it and it works fine. Not sure what brand they used.

 

im about to replace the compressor and condenser because the compressor blew metal into it when it broke. When you say the ac discharge muffler is that part of the hose ?

Thank you

 

Yes it's part of the suction discharge hose assembly