Ford Escape Condenser leaking

ghg12345 · 07-06-2009, 02:59 PM

I have a 2002 Ford Escape with a V6, and the air conditioning has been running out of oomph in it's ability to put out cold air - it will run cold for 20 minutes or so, and then get warm after that.

I brought it in to the dealer, and they said the compressor is cycling on and off fast, and that they see a big leak in the condenser. They recommend replacing the condenser, and two Shrader valves (?). They priced this at a little over $600, including new refrigerant, etc.

In testing, they put in some dye to find the leak. I don't know if they also put in refrigerant, but in the week since it went in, it will run cold non-stop and has not failed at all - yet.

Their price for the condenser is $310. They said they'd install a condenser that I bring in, but they couldn't warrant the part (pretty fair I thought).

So here are my questions:
1) Am I crazy to be driving it around with the A/C on currently? It seems like it's working just fine, and the fact that it hasn't gone warm on me yet makes me think the hole isn't so big...
2) If I bring in my own condenser, I've found their Motorcraft at RockAuto.com for just over $200, a nice savings. However, I see other brands for about $100. Is this a part I should only go Motorcraft with, or would you recommend going with something after market?

Thanks so much for your feedback!! My wife won't put the family in my car until I have this solved and the car cold once and for all, so I really appreciate your help!