How to Replace AC Compressor on GM 8.1 Vortec.

Thank you all for your posts. Special thanks to OldWizard1. Your info is what I needed. Thank you.....
I have the new compressor sitting here in its box. lol

Profcadd wrote:
System has been evacuated. AC professional will charge system after I install the new compressor. I am just trying to find detailed info on removing/replacing the unit.

I just did one on an E150. Many place will recommend you replace the receiver dryer/accumulator, the orifice or TXV and even the condenser. This "shotgun" approach is a total waste of time and money IF the system was holding a charge and proper diagnostic indicate just a bad compressor. (Normal low side pressure and low high side pressure)

It is literally, remove the bolts, remove any O-rings, using a graduate cylinder (like from science class) measure the amount of oil inside the old compressor.

New compressor come with some oil in them (enough for testing). Pour that out and then add the amount of oil that was originally in the old compressor. Lube the new O-rings.

Bolt it in. A "complete" kit including the above mentioned parts (I did install the receiver dryer just because it was pretty easy) except for the condenser was under $200 from Rock Auto. UAC is a major supplier of aftermarket A/C components and the quality appears to be good.

Not your vehicle, but it shows all of the steps Remove and Replace an A/C compressor

EDIT : I did some research and finding the correct compressor might be difficult. I would suggest contacting UAC and telling them what you have. Remember that chassis was a Chevrolet P30. Once you get a UAC part number, you can look it up on Rock Auto. It should be under $150

Technically the job is no different than on a Pick Up truck. Remove the serp belt. Disconnect the lines (Single bolt on top of the compressor if I recall correctly) disconnect the wire(s) and then unbolt it.

Practically. I don't bent in the ways needed to get at all the bolts so I pay a pro to do the job.

If you have to ask then maybe you should look for a youtube video to see what you are getting into. Even if it isn't the same vehicle, just so you have a better idea. The last time I changed a compressor I replaced the dryer as JoeH suggested, but also the refrigerant control as the instructions I got for the job. The job went well, with a bit of labor, but then I am a HVAC/R repair technician with the right tools, and many years working on residential HVAC/R systems.

As ScottG says, "There are no shortcuts" and you could end up with more problems down the road.

I leave the AC work to the guys that have the tools, but you should also replace the dryer while you are at it.

System has been evacuated. AC professional will charge system after I install the new compressor. I am just trying to find detailed info on removing/replacing the unit.

Do you have the tools and equipment to disconnect, evacuate and charge the system after replacing the comp?
It can be a DIY project but there are no shortcuts to having the right stuff to do it.