CJs 928

Hi All, I really need some help understanding how to remove the AC Condenser on a 1987S4. I’ve looked at several pictures and videos, but the area that I’m stuck at does not look similar to everyone else’s. From what I’ve seen from pictures is that there should be multiple holes, however mine has literally none. The issue is that PO hit something and destroyed the spoiler, bumper and bent the brace(?) upward that secures the condenser from the bottom. I removed 2 nuts that secure the sides (left and right), but I don’t see how to get to the condenser nuts on the bottom.

My questions:

Is the brace two parts?

If so, how do you separate them?

Can the whole brace assembly be easily replaced?

What is the actual brace called/part number?

How do I get to the condenser mounting nuts.

I’ve attached some photos that showcase the issue I’m having. Dr. Robb sent me some great photos during one of his maintenance events (thank you), but unfortunately, I’m still stuck.




Thank you for any help.

Chris

FredR

Chris,

You appear to understand the construction- there are two bolts on the side mounts and there are two more hidden bolts on the underside that as I recall are blind in that access is through a hole in the frame. I had to remove the lower spoiler [yours appears to be out] so I am not sure what is going on.

Suggest you shine a light through those small round cut outs to see if you can see the bolt heads you need to get at further in-board. The bolts in question sit about 1/3rd and 2/3rds along the condenser as I recall.

Michael Benno

You are nearly there!

The AC condenser is secured from the bottom. There are two bolts. However, these bolts are only accessible once you remove that mangled "crushed member" you have.


The crushed member is referred to in PET as a "front spoiler bracket". There are two versions 1987-198 (PN: 928-505-059-02 ) and 1990-1995 (PN: 928-505-059-03). The later version is compatible for the early version. Same mounts and dimensions. The bracket is held in by 4 10mm nuts on studs, see highlighted locations below. Given the condition of yours, you may need to bend some metal to get access.

Rob Edwards

You have the crushed remains of the 'carrier' (928 505 059 02), which bolts to the underside of the lower radiator shroud /crossmember. Someone parked that car hard up on parking berm or curb at some point. I don't recall exactly how the carrier is bolted to the shroud but if you remove it, it'll expose the holes to get at the lower mounting bolts for the bottom of the AC condenser. There should be some grommets over the holes in the crossmember.

Rob Edwards

Mike has fleeter fingers (and better illustrations!) than me.

CJs 928

Thank you all for the really quick and helpful assist. I'll crawl back under and see if I'm just not seeing those last two nuts.
Thank you again.

545svk

On my '87, there are bigger holes in the bottom section of the cross member that you access the lower bolts through. These holes are plugged with rubber plugs that have sort of sealed tubes extending into the brace ( a bit hard to explain ). You cannot see them with the spoiler in place, but you can reach them.
When you feel around it feels like there are holes to reach the bolts holding the condenser but then you cannot get a socket in there.
Removing the plugs give you access but you are working blind (if the spoiler is fitted). Also, the bolts are angles back towards the engine - and you cannot get your fingers on them.
Working blind is a PITA, but so is removing the spoiler.

CJs 928

The bottom is too mangled. No holes visible that lead to a nut. I just ordered another brace (thank you for providing the PN and parts diagram) and will try to use that as an example of where my holes should be. Will probably have to do some cutting. Thank you again for everyone's help.
Chris

Mrmerlin

Chris< Based on your response you do not understand what your being advised.

That mangled part # 21 in the drawing, must be removed from the bottom of the cross member support, first.

Then once this is done,
you will see a few rubber plugs that the part # 21was covering,
remove the plugs where the condenser mounting brackets are.
Then use a 10 mm socket to remove the nuts.
Remove the condenser.

To straighten the bent support ,
Put a 2 foot 2x4 on the cross member and stand on it,
this should drive it back to flat,
NOTE hitting it with a hammer will probably dent it.