Reinstalling a Deleted A/C
 

Sorry if this is the wrong section, I clicked on the E30 section and got linked here.

Hi, Im looking to buy a 86 325es with a m52 swap from a 98 328i. The only issue is the AC was deleted during the swap, and Im looking to reinstall it, if i buy the car. Has anyone done this? Personally, I dont have too much experience working on stuff like this, but I have access to people who do. How big of a job would I be looking at? Or would I be better off having it done at a shop? Ive been looking around and can find the major parts (compressor, condenser, evaporator, dryer) for around $200, so the rest of the cost would come from labor.
Thanks.

So you are going to build an E-30 with an E36 powerplant and your only concern is the air conditioner? If you can do the rest I would be happy to help with the air conditioner, it is what I do for a living.

The cars already built, minus the ac.

So you just need the compressor, idler/tensioner, belt and hoses that connect to the reciever drier,and condenser, and the hoses that connect to the evaporator and suction accumulator, or is it all gone? What is still there?

I think its all gone :(
I can tell this thread wont be helpful until i get more info. I think my dads gonna have the car checked out by a mechanic so I find out what it needs in a few days.

A shop is going to tear your wallet out and leave a mark. A/c work is not really a good thing to learn mechanics on. it is as much about phyisics as mechanics. and trying to learn it by trial and errort would be like taking your dvd apart before you learn how to hook it up to a tv.

Yea i know what you mean. Actually Im relatively good friends with the shop teacher at my old HS so hopefully he can help me out. Otherwise i might have to suck it up and eat the cost to have it done at a shop.