Leaking A/C condenser

The A/C in my E30 hasn't worked since I got the car several years ago, and this weekend I finally got fed up and decided to troubleshoot it. After hooking up a vacuum I determined that the leak in the system, which I had hoped was caused by a bad O-ring, was in fact caused by a hole in one of the condenser coils. I can replace the condenser for about $150, but I'm wondering if there are any alternative repair options. Has anyone ever soldered a leaky condenser? Is that even worth considering? I'd rather spend the $150 on something else. :undecided:

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Dave
'91 325iX

Quote
Dave_G
The A/C in my E30 hasn't worked since I got the car several years ago, and this weekend I finally got fed up and decided to troubleshoot it. After hooking up a vacuum I determined that the leak in the system, which I had hoped was caused by a bad O-ring, was in fact caused by a hole in one of the condenser coils. I can replace the condenser for about $150, but I'm wondering if there are any alternative repair options. Has anyone ever soldered a leaky condenser? Is that even worth considering? I'd rather spend the $150 on something else. :undecided:

I've never heard of anybody doing a repair on a condenser Dave, but that doesn't mean it can't be done. Do you have a good radiator man near you? and are you going to change over to the new style fluid? Having the system empty for that long could present problems in putting it back in to service.

Rick

The condensor is usually made of aluminum. It can be welded to repair. If it is brass, it can be soldered.

Bob in Everett

I've asked around and nobody knows of anyone around here who repairs these. I'll probably just replace it. Now the question is, when? Since we're pretty much out of A/C season now, I'm thinking of waiting until spring. Bit if I do that will I destroy the new drier that I just put in since the system is open to the air?

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Dave
'91 325iX

Quote
Dave_G
I've asked around and nobody knows of anyone around here who repairs these. I'll probably just replace it. Now the question is, when? Since we're pretty much out of A/C season now, I'm thinking of waiting until spring. Bit if I do that will I destroy the new drier that I just put in since the system is open to the air?

Hey Dave

If you've started already you're kinda committed at this point, it would seem. Being the system has been dry for all this time you'll probably have an all night pump down ahead of you.

Also, if you wait who knows what will be available and for how much

You might find you'll need more than you thought as far as part replacement for the new gas changeover too; hoses, orings etc.

Rick