FYI: Free vacuum pump for testing. - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

whunter · #1 02-28-2004, 07:22 PM

Hello Everyone
FYI:
Most of us need a vacuum pump at one time or another.
Here is an alternative you may consider.
Ever see a refrigerator, freezer or window A/C unit setting out to the trash.
Each one of these has a compressor/vacuum pump.
Common sense must be used when getting one out for your use.
The static pressure can be 140 psi and if cut or punctured blows a dangerous to breathe white cloud.
The total charge is only a few ounces.
An A/C compressor has input = suction and output = pressure pipe.
When you junk the box, you are left with a small air compressor and vacuum pump, depending upon which pipe you connect to.

The only danger to your car; is that it can suck much harder than the cars vacuum pump, a gauge and bleed valve are good to have in the line to your car.
I use the pump attached to a (recycled 30 LB refrigerant tank) vacuum tank, then attach the tank to the car, even a bad leak takes time to use up that much reserve.
The average is two of three compressors are ok, when used this way, durability life is 3-5 years.

Ok; here comes the legal stuff.
You must have a licensed recovery person salvage the refrigerant.
It is illegal to dump the charge to atmosphere, the fines are quite large.
If you choose to attempt this; you assume full responsibility for your own actions.
I have written this as an FYI, not a technical how to.
By reading this, you acknowledge that you are smarter than a gerbil and a legal adult, results may vary in alaska and Hawaii, smiles are dangerous to depression and you are responsible for what you do, all warranties void on Mars.