I developed a rod knock in my 2006 HHR 2.4L W/O oil cooler. I found an engine for $1,100 with 84k on it and has been tested and comes with a five year 50,000 mile warranty from a reputable company I found online. I don't have a lot of mechanic skill but I have the tools. I did change out my CV AXLE, coil strut, and lower control arms on my own. I want to replace the engine in my car. I know it will be difficult but my question is, do i have to remove the A/C compressor? If so do i need to cap anything off to avoid leakage? What's the best way to remember what goes where? Do i use a marking system? Thank you for any help.

 

Some remove the AC compressor, some dismantle the tubes - in any case, the replacement of freon is inevitable. You will have to replace, including: oil, antifreeze, some gaskets.
If worn, the engine and transmission mounts will have to be replaced.
The electrician can be a problem. From a simple mismatch of firmware or broken connectors during dismantling to the absence of some sensors that will have to be purchased.

How to remember? A set of permanent markers and a phone camera. General and detailed photos of everything you touch + colored strip with an indelible marker on all connections before disconnecting them.

 

Yeah I figured a set of markers or a numbering system....I'm really gonna try this as my hhr is in great condition. I've been watching as much as i can to get the details. Thank you for the input....I found a nice rebuilt online for $1100 with a 50000 mile warranty with 84k on it. it will be a fun process im sure with some head scratching.

 

You can remove the compressor from the engine and bungee cord it out of the way.

 

Yup, that's what I did when I pulled my engine.


Take lots of pictures showing the wire harness routings, some of them are zig zag here and there to avoid hot engine parts and moving parts.

High-level question: are you going to drop the cradle or try to go out the top?

Steve

 

The videos ive seen they take it out from the top. They said it was pretty easy that way. I don't have a lift to remove it from the bottom.

 

Ive used the blue green painters tapes, wrap a piece, on each side of the connectors with a number, letter , both and even designs..... when reconnecting match them up as you remove the tape... Once everything is done it will be connected properly with no missed connections dangling causing a headache of searching for that missed or forgotten connection. Do this with wires and hoses.