A/C Compressor O-Ring question

Replacing A/C compressor…
I might be overthinking this but is it OK to just PAG oil up the o-ring that already comes installed in the Denso replacement compressor and use it? The (superb) write-up linked below seems to insist on getting the one in the Santec kit. But maybe they’re just following the older AdventureTaco write-up.
Any experiences? Thanks for help.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/1st-gen-a-c-system-replacement-how-to-seized-compressor.293204/

 

I do a decent amount of AC repairs at work. I always recommend a new O ring. You don't know how long that O ring sat on a shelf, then lived crushed on the new AC compressor.

In a pinch, and with a gamble, yes pag oil up that o ring and send it. If it doesn't leak right away, chances are you will be OK.

BTW, how do you plan to recharge your AC system??

 

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/fsm-spec-for-5vz-ac.833564/

 

I'm spoiled, have Robinair machines at work. R134 and 1234yf

 

Basically by following the write-up I had linked ^. Buying gauges, a vacuum pump, a fitting for canned R134a, and the R134a. Then pulling vacuum and letting it sit for a day before I charge it. I don't foresee myself doing this again and I am tempted to just take the easy way out and take it to a shop to vacuum/charge. After all, I may not need the tools again.

 

Check the link I posted. I rented everything from autozone for free. There’s a video in the link too.

 

I'm biased, obviously - I like to use new o-rings, just so you know what you're getting. Such a small (and relatively cheap) part, why risk it? (Maybe a time thing for delivery?)

One thing I found when working on the A/C was that my first stab at fixing it didn't work. The system seemed to hold vacuum after I replaced the condenser, but it turned out there was also a leak in the compressor *sometimes* or at some point in the compression stroke, which didn't reveal itself unless the compressor was running. That meant that I had to recharge the system a couple of times (and, another couple of times while the slow leak in the compressor was diagnosed). Anyway, I say all that just to say that getting the tools might be worthwhile vs. taking it to a shop, if you end up having to do it a few times.

"Renting" (borrowing) the tools - as @Dalandser mentioned - could be a good option as well, though I've found the A/C kits to be in rough shape, generally.

 

The OEM brand Autozone rent were more expensive than I would have paid if I was buying my own tools for this job and the vacuum pump was never even used before with a brand new unopened bottle of hydraulic oil. The manifold was in new condition as well, so just look around at a few parts stores if they don’t have a nice one at the first one you go to. My city has 5 within 10 min of me so I’ll never buy anything I don’t use more than once every few years. Having one’s own tools is nice, but storing them all can be a pain sometimes too.

 

I already installed the compressor using the stock o-ring on Saturday. I had forgotten to order the Santec kit, and just wanted to get on with it. Later, I thought maybe the Santec is a thicker o-ring or something, so I posted here, hoping for some reassurance. I guess I'll see what happens!

 

Pull a vacuum on it before you put everything back together - at least you’ll know.

Edit: just saw you put everything back together already haha