Air Conditioner Vacuum Pumps

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Jun 5, 2007 | 01:49 AM

2KThunder

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From: San Marcos, TX

Air Conditioner Vacuum Pumps

Does anyone know if any places rent automotive vacuum pumps or anyone ever done it? Ive tried a few places and they act like im crazy. I cant afford $300 for something ill use once. Any ideas?

Jun 5, 2007 | 11:49 AM

G-Body

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From: Downers Grove, IL

If you have a big aircompressor you can buy a venturi vacuum pump. They should be under $50, but they do consume a lot of CFM of air.

Jun 5, 2007 | 11:53 AM

ghettocruiser

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From: West Chester, PA

Autozone SHOULD rent them. I say should, because most stores dont carry them. My store didnt, and I saw that we had them for rent. So a customer asked where to get one, and I said Ill order it and rent it to you. After that, it stayed in our store. Problem is, half the idiots that work at autozone dont know what they heck they are doing. So many resources at that place that no one knows how to tap.

Give them a call and ask. I havent worked there in almost 2 years, so things may have changed, but I know Ive rented them out before...

Justin

Jun 5, 2007 | 01:07 PM

2KThunder

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From: San Marcos, TX

Yeah I saw harborfreight had a Venturi one for cheap, I just dont think our compressor could handle it. I mean the specs match up, its got a huge tank I just dont think it can pull, it seems when using just air tools it emptys fast, and Ive heard the venturi pumps take a bit longer.

Thanks for input thus far

Jun 9, 2007 | 12:02 AM

gto69judge

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Make Your own

I have used old refrigerator compressors as a vacuum pump for over 30 years. They will pull at least 28" of vacuum which is plenty for A/C work.
You can purchase a port to solder onto the 1/4" or 3/8" suction side of the compressor from any heating/cooling supply house.

Jun 13, 2007 | 10:40 PM

theblur98ss

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From: East Brady, Pa

If you just want to recharge your system try any hvac shop in the area. Have them pull the vacuum and then you can do the rest. Shouldn't cost very much.