How do I remove the compressor (AC pump) properly...

[91Beater]

Recover refrigerant..
Remove hoses and undo belt..
Remove four bolts.

I was able to get the old one out by using a wrench handle on the groove to pry it out, but I broke the die cast in process.


It's just wedged on so tight.

The new to me compressor doesn't seem to be working right and I'd like to remove it to try another one.

I don't feel comfortable prying it against the manifold or anything else that might break

Is there anything I can do short of wrapping it up in a strap and yank it with an engine hoist?

[turboleg]

You should be able to remove the lower bracket holding the compressor and pull the whole assembly. There should be nothing for the compressor to wedge against if you pull the bracket bolts.

[91Beater]

Do you have top mount hoses on your compressor? I believe it comes in two types. The one in the Haynes isn't quite right.

There's one retaining bolt on driver's side rear.... but that's the only one I can find.

[turboleg]

Yes. I have top mount hoses. I havent seen them any other way. As I recall there is a triangular mount on the front side of the compressor. The mount has one bolt into the block. I believe the bolt is right behind the oil dipstick.

[Legacy777]

Can you take some pictures of the compressor setup? Mine is like what turboleg described.

Regarding recovering the refrigerent, you need a special machine to do that. Your best bet is to see if you can find a shop that will recover the refrigerent, let you do the work, then you can take it back to them to pull a vacuum and recharge the system.

[turboleg]

Confirming what Josh is saying . Also, you should ask about what coolant option exist. 10 years ago an R19 system had to be converted to the more environmentally friendly r134a alternatively, you have to yave the r19 recovered and then put back in the system...but last week I was reading an article that lead me to believe that some of the r134a oils have been stabilized to work in r19 systems interchangeably. I only suggest checking because if you were able to go with r134a you would then be able to maintain your refrigerant with the recharge cans sold at walmart, autozone, etc. Might be worth the discussion to avoid hassle or extra work in the future.

[2.2TLegacy]

^ agreed. I did the r134 conversion when i did my build. Only thing i changed out was the evaporator just because it was in bad shape. Bought one of the conversion kits from my local walmart (comes with the low pressure fitting and plenty of refrigerant for the car). You have to remember that the system will take about 80% of the r12 amount so if i remember correctly its about 28oz of r134 refrigerant. Most of the kits will come with the approved compressor oil with them also. I haven't had a single issue with it so far. Blows ice cold even in 100+ degree weather.

[Legacy777]

Changing the oil type is really the key component. It's also a good idea to change the receiver drier.

[91Beater]

To remove the bracket would entail removing alternator.

You don't even need to remove the belt to do this.
Remove and recover refrigerant.
Disconnect lines and clutch cable.

Quick and easy way:

With a 24" wrecking bar..
1.) pry under the compressor. It will move up about a 1/4".

2.) pry between the bracket and compressor on the engine side of the compressor (psgr side). Only pry between the bracket and the compressor. It should slip right out.

The bottom mount slips on tightly around the compressor, so it takes some force to slip it out.

Don't pry against the manifold, radiator or anything else that maybe damaged.