A/C recharge trouble (damaged condenser?)

[bluegill]

A year ago I recharged my A/C system after disconnecting the bumper for timing belt service. Everything was going normal until I heard a bang. I decided to look at it today because it's pretty hot out and I needed to fix a reflector that popped out of the bumper. So, it looks like the bottom hose popped off the driver side of the condenser during the recharge and that might have caused the bang. I'm pretty sure I screwed it together, and the screw is missing. Another concern - on the metal pipe on the driver side where it connects to the A/C sensor (I think that's what it is), there looks like there is some sediment. Does that indicate a leak? How can I reconnect the hose? Looks like I need a screw.

[mtroxel]

Not sure what the sediment is. But after having that system open for a year, I would not just put it back together and recharge it. That system is full of moisture at this point, and the receiver/dryer is saturated. If you want your compressor to last for a few years, you need to have the entire system vacuumed out and have the proper amount of R134a put back in.

[bluegill]

Thanks. What kind of bolt do I need for that A/C hose that disconnected? Also, should I replace the dryer before or after vacuuming?

[Brillo]

!. repair hose. 2. install new dryer. 3. Immediately evacuate. 4. Recharge with proper amount of R134a coolant and lubricating oil. The process is best left to a professional A/C shop.

[bluegill]

What kind of bolt would fit the hose? #6 in diagram, I believe

[mtroxel]

Don't know about the bolt. Go to a hardware store and buy 3 or 4 metric bolts that look right and try 'em. If you have 3 bolts left over you've wasted $2.50.

!. repair hose. 2. install new dryer. 3. Immediately evacuate. 4. Recharge with proper amount of R134a coolant and lubricating oil. The process is best left to a professional A/C shop.

I agree with this, except have the shop pressure test it before the new dryer. If that residue means a leaky condenser you need to replace that before you close it back up and do a new dryer.