AC Compressor Failure - Need Help!

hello everyone,

'The SANDEN SD7V16 power steering pump, part number 1JO 820 803 A, failed in my A3 TDI (year of manufacture 1997) today. I could get a replacement at a good price, but it has the ending '-F' instead of '-A'. Will it fit? Apparently, you need a different connector for it, or the '-F' version is only supposed to be installed as a complete unit with the clutch...'

Please help me! Thank you in advance. - Wolf.

Hi, are you sure it's not just that the coolant level is too low, which is why it's not turning on?
In the line leading to the expansion valve, there is a pressure switch that shuts off the compressor when the pressure is too low.
The error code can be read from the climate control system's memory. In my case, the connection to the expansion valve was leaking.

Best regards, Rainer.

hi rainer,

The thing is definitely broken because metal debris (inside) has already come loose from the bottom of the coupling, and it was actually refilled only 2 months ago...

Hello,

If not enough oil was added during the filling process, that could also be the cause of the damage. In that case, the compressor would run dry.

... I got a 'new' one from a parts dealer today, but it still cost 290€. Well, it's still better than sitting in the car and sweating.

'If you have 'metal debris' coming from the clutch, it's likely that the clutch disc of the magnetic coupling is broken. This happened to me before (on my Golf III). Unfortunately, this disc is not available separately, but only as a complete unit with the magnetic coupling from VW for €500. For €500, you can also get a complete compressor from Bisch.'

I had a used compressor (originally from a Golf II) removed from a stationary air conditioning unit for a small fee (using those flimsy 1/4' screws), and then I attached that pulley to my own compressor. The diameter should be correct. There were also smaller compressors available for the Golf II. Then, adjust the distance between the pulley and the clutch so that they don't rub against each other when the engine is idling, and you're done.

This will save you the trouble of refilling.

For refilling, it's best to find a climate control service station for stationary systems. They can also fill cars and are usually cheaper. With oil, it costs around €60.