Nook1

Sorry for the late reply. Not hard at all. I have the lexus manual both volumes just in case I had to do some work on the top mechanism. No i didnt replace the condensor. You only replace it if your compressor craps itself. The filter is on the side of the condenser and i think you can replace it seperately. But most just replace both since you have to take it out and off the car to replace it.

mildsc430

Thanks for the reply. I removed the compressor but how in the world do you remove the valve? Did you have to use vice grips? Wasn't sure if there was a trick to this.

Nook1

There is a c-clip that holds it in place. You can probably just use 2 picks and squeeze the together to take it away from the edges or just buy a cheap pair of c ring pliers from harbor freight. Then just use a pair of grip pliers and tug on the top of the valve.

Nook1

You should see two small holes around the edge. Thats the clip you have to compress inward to remove it. It would be great if that fixed your problem. Have any more questions dont be afraid to ask.

mildsc430

Got the c-ring out (have the correct pliers). Just was afraid to use vice grips to get the valve out. Got a new one coming so guess shouldn't matter. Thanks for the quick reply.

Nook1

No stress hopes it fixes it for ya

mildsc430

Swapped out the control valve, reassembled, evacuated and recharge. Ice cold air with 35/200 psi low/high readings on a 90 degree day. I would say success. Will let you know if anything changes. Thanks for the help.

Nook1

Sounds good! congrats on your success. Keep us posted