RV2 AC compressor Rebuild help
I did not touch the surface on the one on the crank but the one that you have dipped in oil surely you have to be able to push it down into the front housing. Here's a picture of the old seals the one on the left is the old one and looks like the one you have and the one on the right is it a new one this is out of a New Old Stock Mopar front seal package I assume they go the direction like I have in the picture with the completely flat side down first.
The side with the lapped surface faces the carbon ring. Use nitrile or neoprene gloves to handle the seal components. Make sure you oil the o-ring and the bore in the front bearing retainer where the o-ring seals. As Wolfgang mentioned, you can use a socket to press on the seal seat (that is what the cast iron part with the lapped face and o-ring is called), but the lapped surface must not be marred in any way. Use several layers of paper (cut out suitable circular pieces) between the socket and the seat to protect the seat. After install, use acetone, lacquer thinner, or brake parts cleaner to clean the lapped surface.
On the subject of oil: DO NOT USE PAG OR POE (aka ester) OIL FOR ASSEMBLY!!! The reason is because both of these oils are hygroscopic, meaning they readily absorb water from the atmosphere. They will introduce moisture into your system. Use mineral oil for assembly purposes, even if you will be using POE or PAG for the actual charge (if using R-134a). If you cannot get a quart of AC mineral oil locally, Ebay has it:
For 1986-1992 Dodge Ramcharger R12 Refrigerant Oil 56624WF 1987 1988 1989 1990 | eBay
In addition to assembly, this oil can be used to fill the compressor if you're using R-12. If you have a vacuum pump, you can use vacuum pump mineral oil for assembly purposes, but not for filling the compressor.
As far as oil goes if it is a completely dry system do you add all 10-11 oz of oil to the compressor before install?
Yes. With an RV2, or any other compressor with a sump, you add the entire oil charge to the compressor. Use an oil compatible with the refrigerant being used. IIRC, the RV2 calls for an ISO 100 (500-525 SUS) oil, but if it's anything like a York it will tolerate anything from ISO 32 (150 SUS) to ISO 150 (650 - 800 SUS) viscosity. I'd stick with ISO 100, mineral oil if you're using R-12 and POE or PAG if you're using R-134a.
