Our supercharged 89...
Our supercharged 89 5.0 can now cruise in air-conditioned comfort, thanks to new parts and O-ring seals from our local Ford dealer.
There are two lines that connect...
There are two lines that connect to the condenser with Ford spring-lock couplers. Usually, we would tell you to disconnect these lines to replace the O-ring seals, but we need to replace the complete condenser in this situation. Make sure your system has no refrigerant in it. Ours had completely leaked out, but have yours checked before you start.
The spring-lock coupler tool...
The spring-lock coupler tool shown in the previous photo is a Ford tool, but you can accomplish the same job with the tool shown here, which is more readily available at auto parts stores nationwide. Simply insert the tool until the garter spring has expanded, then separate the lines.
The first line to be removed...
The first line to be removed is the liquid line, which also contains the fixed orifice tube inside it. Throughout the years, the fixed orifice can become clogged and hamper A/C performance. We always replace this line when doing any major A/C repairs. The second line from the condenser to the A/C compressorusually only requires new O-ring seals, but we decided to replace this line as well.
Back in the Apr. 2000 issue of Mustang Monthly, we discussed details of how to determine what is ailing your late-model air conditioning system. The particular Mustang we diagnosed was an 89 LX 5.0 sedan, but the repair procedures will be nearly identical for any year 5.0 and useful for both V-6 and four-cylinder owners as well.
To refresh your memory, the 89 needed a new evaporator, hoses, and a dryer assembly. In the interim, the Paxton NOVI supercharger it is wearing has been updated with a new race bracket and tensioner, requiring tweaking of the A/C condenser lines. During this operation, the condenser developed a crack and had to be added to our list of replacement items. Many of the lines and fittings are easy to access, so we will simply point out a few tips in that area while we concentrate on disassembly of the dash area and removal of the HVAC (Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning) case from within.
Obtaining replacement parts can be either from your Ford dealer or favorite auto parts store. We opted for the Ford original look and quality by purchasing our service parts through our local Ford dealer. The typical evaporator and hose repair at an A/C shop can set you back more than $1,000, but doing the work yourself can easily save you $400-$600, depending upon the parts you need. If we hadnt cracked the condenser, we could have easily saved more than $200 right there with one part. The only service required after buttoning up the car is having your system recharged, which will run you anywhere from $75-$150, depending upon labor rates and refrigerant costs.