Gen 1 A/C compressor replace

I don't know. How sure are you that the whole compressor is needed?

There was a detailed thread about replacing the magnetic clutch and pulley on the compressor, which is sometimes the only thing really needed when a "compressor replacement" has been suggested.

There's also plenty of information on the one-dollar process of adjusting the clutch, which is nearly always the only thing really needed when a "clutch replacement" has been suggested.

Both of those options can be done without opening the refrigerant system. Replacing the compressor itself, if needed, is a more invasive procedure needing refrigerant recovery, and recharging afterward.

 

... ok, maybe that compressor doesn't owe you a lot by now.

 

Probably not a terribly painful job. If you replaced the clutch at 385k I think you worked harder then. A replacement compressor probably has a clutch already on it, so you've got like the belt, four bolts, two refrigerant lines and one electric plug.

The key is having the gear to reclaim, evacuate, and recharge, which is kind of pricey to have around unless one is in the business.

Also, if the old compressor failed, there may be debris in the lines and condenser, if not the rest of the system, which can make it a more painful and expensive job.

No need to worry about the high-voltage compatible miracle oil, as all the Gen 2 and later owners must.