Vacuum Pump

SimonWright · **Posted:** Sun Jul 31, 2011 2:40 pm

I've replaced the AC lines that were torn when the strut tower failed and I have the gauges, oil and refrigerant, but I'm unable to locate a vacuum pump from any of the local auto stores.

Does anyone have one I can borrow or rent?

Thanks.

Simon

BretLuter · **Posted:** Sun Jul 31, 2011 8:16 pm

Sorry, I don't have one, but IIRC they sell an el-cheapo at Harbor Freight.

OR, if you're really energetic, I've heard you can use a compressor from an old refrigerator......

SimonWright · **Posted:** Mon Aug 01, 2011 9:59 am

Well, a quick look on HF revealed this el cheapo vacuum pump. I was a bit suspicious of the "Maintenance Free, No Moving Parts!" claim. Downloaded the manual and it says "Turn on the Air Vacuum Pump by activating the air compressor (not included)."

Kinda explains the no moving parts bit although how they can turn compressed air into a vacuum I'd be interested to know.

However, I think I'll continue the pursuit of a real vacuum pump - this $15 one might be a one-use POS. And I'd still have to find me a compressor. I know, I know - how can I be in my 5th year of rallying and not own one!

Thanks.

Simon

jeremy gast · **Posted:** Mon Aug 01, 2011 10:18 am

A friend of mine used one of those pumps for a while when he had a shop in durham. And if I am not mistakeng if it breaks HF will just replace it!

KouroshNeshat · **Posted:** Mon Aug 01, 2011 10:42 am

i think the autozone off of capitol blvd will have one. they are converting that store into a "hub" and the lady at the falls of neuse location said they may have it.

MikeWhitney · **Joined:** Wed Aug 20, 2003 9:15 pm **Posts:** 4724

Simon, I have one you're free to borrow.

Jason Tower · **Joined:** Wed Jun 11, 2008 3:31 pm **Posts:** 1173

MikeWhitney wrote:

Simon, I have one you're free to borrow.

hasn't simon taken enough resources from you this year?

SimonWright · **Posted:** Mon Aug 01, 2011 1:21 pm

Mike: That would be wonderful - I'll be in touch to pick up.

Jason: WTF?

Jason Tower wrote:

MikeWhitney wrote:

Simon, I have one you're free to borrow.

hasn't simon taken enough resources from you this year?

MikeWhitney · **Joined:** Wed Aug 20, 2003 9:15 pm **Posts:** 4724

Jason Tower wrote:

MikeWhitney wrote:

Simon, I have one you're free to borrow.

hasn't simon taken enough resources from you this year?

I know! It felt REALLY weird to type that, lol.

Simon ... here: http://www.facebook.com/simonsaysracing

SimonWright · **Posted:** Mon Aug 01, 2011 7:09 pm

Ah! Ding, ding, ding!

THIS Simon gets it now.

I was seriously worried that I'd offended someone,

Simon
(mostly one colour)

Charlie Guthrie · **Joined:** Thu Aug 28, 2003 8:14 pm **Posts:** 832

The compressed air powered vacuum pumps come in a variety of vacuum pressures and air consumptions, so make sure that your air compressor is up to the task of powering the "pump". I have an electric vacuum pump for low level vacuum (it is a diaphragm type, not a piston type). I also have a few of the vacuum generators in my automation parts bin if you are interested, but the vacuum generators are intended to operate robotic grippers and may not generate the higher vacuum you may need to evacuate and dry the system. What I don't have are the fittings needed to adapt the vacuum generator to the A/C system.
Charlie G

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