AC Compressor replacement. Do I need to replace condenser & expansion valve as well?

My AC compressor seized up (pig squeal sound) and needs to be replaced. The shop that originally diagnosed the issue mentioned only replacing the compressor and flushing the system. But after shopping compressors on Rock Auto I read about how the 2nd Gens use parallel flow condensers and that these cannot be flushed (The flush may not go through all the tubes and leave debris). They recommend replacing the condenser and expansion valve to avoid the condenser from breaking prematurely. Is this the way to go? I was going to source the parts myself and give them to the shop, but I'm concerned they never mentioned this.

 

Just replaced my compressor and clutch. Turns out I only needed the clutch but it’s done and blowing ice cubes. Nothing else but a vacuum, that I know of. Go OE clutch and call it a day, hopefully. Good luck!

 

Micro-channel parallel flow condensers can not be flushed effectively and must be replaced if there is metal contamination, also the filter/drier is built into the condenser so best to replace it anyway.

Would be a good idea to replace the expansion valve as well, for sure clean/replace the screen that goes in front of it.

Metal bits typically don't make it to the evaporator so most of the time you can just give them a quick flush to get the dirty oil out and reuse them.

 

That seems to be what I'm reading everywhere so I'll go that route.

Another question: Has anyone used Napa compressors? I picked one up, but I'm also seeing Delphi, and UAC compressors for ~ $100 less on Rock Auto. Wondering how quality compares between these. I'd buy Denso but there seems to be a shortage everywhere.

 

Not sure who makes Napa's compressors, I'm thinking it's 4-seasons but don't quote me on that.

UAC is China trash, they work but don't expect them to last more than a couple years.

Delphi is currently about the closest you can get to OE in the aftermarket since Denso discontinued their compressor line.

Make sure to save the Lock Sensor off your old compressor, the aftermarket ones (even Delphi) have been known to not work out of the box.