Air con unit starting to make a few odd noises!
What's the current consensus on the most cost effective manner to replace the compressor for an owner in Perth Australia?
I'd made note of
"Sanden sdv16" compatible with Alfa 155.
Replace with parts from Eurospares?
Rebuild locally?
Source the Alfa compatible ?
Hi Migliore, Unfortunately I went through this 18 months ago.
Before we talk compressors we need to establish the
exhaust type you have and whether it will get in the road of removing or even seeing the air compressor.
If you have the 2 bolt US spec there should be room to maneouver as the header with inbuilt cat exits more rearwards. This will make fitting much simpler for your mechanic.
If like me you have the 4 bolt Euro spec, then there is also likely to be a heat shield to protect the compressor and starter motor from the heat as the header wraps under the motor. I needed to use a camera scope to read the back of the compressor to determine its type.
Secondly, Maserati used 2 models of compressor, maybe to have supply options in case of a hold up. The Sanden you mentioned and a Delphi model.
Supply - I was pointed to compressor express from Hungary by forum members. The price was great at 521 euro = 50 euro shipping, until we discovered I had the Delphi model which was another 66 euro at the time. They had refurbished stock as well but expert local opinion was rebuilt can't be trusted. The delivery arrived quickly and was as described a brand new compressor. They were way cheaper than Eurospares and other sources.
The work - as the bearing in the compressor had seized, mine broke the auxiliary belt. We took the opportunity to replace the belt and the tensioner and pulley the belt runs over. It took my mechanic 1.5 hours to clear the burnt rubber from the grooves in the crank pulley, so fortunately you've got to this in time. If it is a 4 bolt header, then the task involves lifting the passenger side of the motor to remove the header, to bend / remove the heat shield. Whilst in there they suggested we look at the starter motor as the whole process would be required to get to it at a later date.
So don't drive your car much for fear of the compressor seizing. If you can hoist it at home and view the type and model of compressor, then your on your way.
Regards,
Bruce