AlabamaDan

So it sounds like the first step is the things you outlined to get a good charge on the system. Then we can see what's going on right?

Thanks so much. I'd can swing $160 if it fixes the system. I'll need more guidance, but before we get there, what if it is the compressor or condenser? Before I purchase materials to charge the refrigerant, shouldn't I ensure all the components work? Problem is I don't know how.

Now that I've got my radiator repaired, I need to move on to the next big problem. It's hot down here in the deep south and my air conditioning system isn't working. This is something that I'm not experienced with. It just blows hot air. How do I diagnose? Where do I start?

This is cool. Would it work on a QX4? Think you could put the bumper back on?

I thought I'd try DIY. Gotta learn sometime. Sounds like the best thing to start with is hook up some gauges and put in some R134a and see what happens.

I'm still searching for my coolant leak, but I'm also starting to think about the next big thing I need to fix. Since it's almost July and well into the 90s in the deep South, the Air Conditioner is important. It hasn't worked in years and the AC system is nothing I've ever messed with. Where should I start? Should I even consider pulling parts from a jy? How would I know if they're good or not?

1998.

I used to live South of Decatur, but now I'm in Mississippi.

Dropped my QX4 off at the dealership and they replaced my front seat belts. WOW what a difference they make when they actually retract. They even gave me a loaner, a 2019 QX60 with 6 miles on it! I was nervous....

I really need to fix my AC.

All seatbelts have a lifetime warranty. Mine no longer retracted.

I confirmed my appointment to take my QX to the dealership to have the seat belts replaced. 20 year old vehicle, they're still giving me a loaner!

How about the wiring harness. Did you have to change anything?

How about the wiring harness. Did you have to change anything?

WAIT! The newer headlights from the 99.5 and up simply bolt right in? I thought there would have to be ballasts or something! Please share more? I'm really enjoying reading about your thread. Learning lots too!

I have that problem too! My interior and exterior lights flash sometimes, makes the radio speakers go out on one side, and some of the dummy lights on the dash flash. It doesn't affect the engine performance or driving. It may happen a regularly for a while and then won't happen at all for a while. Sound familiar?

Well you're an expert. Come on down and do mine! lol

I'm afraid the water pump is what I will find with the dye. About 70k ago I replaced the timing belt and all the things that go with it myself. By the time I finished all the "while you're in there" stuff It was like a $1000 job, but at 202k miles she still cranks right up and runs well. I really don't want to do that job again right now...

I don't think all those pieces match a 97 QX4. I know those roof rack bars are from the 99.5 and up QX4, I snagged a set myself from pull-a-part. I don't think those door plates are 97 OE either, but I like them. I wish I knew what they were from. I need to do that on mine! I think you've got a bargain. For $500 anything that cranks and runs is good. My AC is out and I'll have to pay more than that to repair it I'm afraid.... That's why I don't have AC. Good job dude! Maybe you can share some detail on all these LED lights your changing. I'd like to do that, but I am not handy with a soldering iron. That's a skill I haven't mastered. Replacing the axle and such is easy. I did that with hand tools in my garage. Do you have a FSM?

Yeah, I've got a little blacklight led flashlight.

I like that fog light switch.

I'm new here, but found a warm welcome so far.

I just bought this: https://www.amazon.com/Certified-Engine-Cooling-Systems-ounce/dp/B002M4E0VC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1528594653&sr=8-1&keywords=radiator+dye+kit#customerReviews

Maybe pull the OE's off a QX4.

Oh gosh, I hope that's not on the 3.3! That would totally suck.