Replacing A/C Gasket.

[Sandrooney]

Are the gaskets universal? I have a Dometic. Can I place A/C on its side or turn it over without hurting it?
Any tips would be greatly appreaciated.
Thanks,
SR

[sundancer 87]

Originally Posted by Sandrooney

Are the gaskets universal? I have a Dometic. Can I place A/C on its side or turn it over without hurting it?
Any tips would be greatly appreaciated.
Thanks,
SR

You can probably match the gasket material at the local hardware store.


It's not advisable to turn an A/C on its side or upside down. This is because there may be crud in the bottom of the compressor motor that will float into the oil and may eventually be pumped through the system and create a blockage. I say 'may be' because it will depend on how many hours it has operated. There is a certain amount of crud in the oil, this I know from tearing a compressor down to its bones.



If it has to be placed other than its normal position the rule of thumb is to place it upright the same amount of time it was in the abnormal position BEFORE applying power.

[wahoonc]

I would buy the specific gasket if at all available. They are similar but not exact.

I usually carry a couple short pieces of 2x4 up on the roof to set the unit on while I am cleaning the roof and installing the new gasket.

Aaron

[Sandrooney]

Thanks. I will try and find one for this A/C. I didn't think it would be advisable to turn it on it's side or turn it upside down.
Will I need help? About how heavy are the A/C's
Thanks again.

[wahoonc]

Weight is in the 80-90# range.

I am going to walk back my statement on specific gasket...

Here is a link to a Universal that should work. I was remembering the old beast Bay Breeze that was on my Airstream, it was very specific, but it could be repaired too.

Aaron

[joebedford]

YOU will put more of a point load on the roof than the A/C. When I worked on mine, I put down a piece of 3/8" ply to spread my load out. The roof is not very sturdy.