6 replies to this topic

[MarkMcD]

Hello all. I have a 96 spi Japanese import and have been considering removing the air conditioning system from it. Mainly because I live in the north of Scotland and don't really need it, and also to declutter the engine compartment. My main question is has anyone done this before and had an absolute mare with it? And what components am I looking to replace to return it to a standard fit?
Thanks

[Scousemouse]

I've always removed any a/con on any yank truck or car that I've ever owned (I don't consider them worth it in this country,even when we have a decent summer) 

But as for tackling a/con removal on a Mini,I personally wouldn't bother.

Best of luck to you though if you go ahead and do it. I never could see the point of a/con in a car,just open a window,but that's my p/opinion.

[xrocketengineer]

I recommend not to do it but, If you remove it, make sure not to damage anything since you can sell it. I took mine out, but I had to remove the engine to replace the gear box. However, I put mine back together.

This is what I did with mine:

Have the system emptied by a specialist. You will need to remove the alternator first. It will need new UK type brackets to fit back in. Also the ECU has to be removed but it can remain in the same location afterwards.

 

Then the hoses for the compressor can be disconnected from the condenser (next to the service port) and next to the low pressure service port there is a "ball" of black rubbery insulation (next to the orange tape on the second picture) that needs to be removed to access the hose fitting.

 

Then use the tensioner screw on the compressor bracket to loosen the tension on the "v" belt for the compressor.

 

Now the compressor can come out with its bracket and hoses. Four bolts hold the bracket in place, two on the engine block, one on the water pump and one at the bottom on the plate for the cam timing gear cover.  

 

After that the condenser can be removed after disconnecting it from the accumulator. I had removed the brake master cylinder and servo for the engine removal anyway. I don't remember if that is necessary. The condenser fan fasteners have to be removed from underneath the wing.

 

The next thing would be the accumulator and its bracket.

 

At this point what is left are internal components like the evaporator, blower and controls which I did not remove on mine so I can not provide any information on their removal. Keep also in mind that there will be extra wires left in the car after the air conditioning removal that I am not sure if they are removable on their own.

Edited by xrocketengineer, 26 February 2017 - 04:11 PM.

[MarkMcD]

Thanks for the advice xrocketengineer. Don't think I'll be in a rush to start if that is the case.
Something to look at if I end up removing the engine at some point. Cheers for the advice.

[xrocketengineer]

Well when I was going to reinstall the engine, it looked like this, so the compressor and hoses can remain with the engine:

 

And after the reinstallation:

 

 

Edited by xrocketengineer, 28 February 2017 - 02:45 AM.

[Bobbins]

Resurrecting this ... I need to replace the rubber suspension cones on my '98 JDM Mini, is it necessary to remove any of the air-con in order to remove the subframe tower bolts and the upper arm shaft? I'll be replacing with Hi-Lo's and red spot cones if that makes any difference.

 

Stu.

[xrocketengineer]

Yes, the accumulator as seen above is located on top of the tower bolt and has to come out. Without removing the bolt the cone compressor will not work.