Many owners of classic cars are used to conducting basic repairs on their cars. However, some of their actions can have destructive effects. This article discusses some things that you should avoid doing in order to keep the AC compressor in your classic car working effectively.

Over Tightening the Compressor Belt 

Some compressor belts on classic cars make noise when the engine is revved while the car is parked or in neutral. Classic car owners may at times tighten the compressor belt excessively in order to prevent that belt from screeching as the car owner shows off how powerful the engine of his or her car is.

Over tightening the AC compressor belt may cause different components of the compressor, such as the bearing of drive pulley, to wear out quickly. This can cause the compressor to break down completely over time.

Avoid this problem by using the right amount of tension in the compressor belt. Buy a tension gauge from an auto supplies store near you so that you use it to measure the tension in your compressor belt. Make sure that it does not exceed the recommended level.

Running the AC When It Is Low on Refrigerant

Many modern cars have inbuilt safety features that shut down the AC when the system is low on refrigerant. Some classic cars may not have such safety mechanisms. Consequently, some classic car owners may insist on using the AC even if a warning light told them that the car is low on refrigerant. Consequently, the internal components of the compressor may be damaged. This is because AC refrigerants usually has some lubricant that protects moving components from the damaging effects of friction. Low refrigerant levels mean that such protection is no longer given to those moving components. Avoid using the AC when it is low on refrigerant.

Overcharging the AC System

Some owners of classic cars top up the refrigerant each time they notice that their cars' AC systems aren't performing as expected. This can result in extensive damage to the compressor because liquid refrigerant may find its way into the compressor. That liquid is likely to damage the compressor because the compressor was only designed to compress refrigerant in gas form. Avoid topping the refrigerant if you don't have the right equipment to confirm the volume of refrigerant in your classic car.

As you can see, many of the complicated problems that vintage cars develop can be attributed to the actions of inexperienced car owners who try to fix some other problems that the car develops. Avoid worsening the problems of your car. Let the professionals handle any repairs that are beyond your capacity to deal with.