1991 Audi coupe with 7A motor needs AC condenser

[cgharibo]

It's hot and the AC in my 7A coupe went out. The part is Valeo 814288.

I am in US and the condenser is not obtainable. No one I checked has it.

What are my options here? Are there universal condensers that can fit our cars well?

Thank you!

[johne]

Consider using a Valeo 814296 if they are available in the US as a substitute.

There are 4 VALEO 814296 condensers available over here in Europe, according to Autodoc. The 296 is slightly taller than the 288 and was fitted to the S2s but should be able to be fitted to a 7A, you'd need to check.

With shipping I'd expect it to cost north of $300 to get to you (it's £165 here). At that price I'd have thought you could have a custom copy made in the US.

The Valeo 814288 is available here for around £135, again according to Autodoc.

There's nothing special about the condensers fitted to our cars, especially as the receiver drier is separate so there's no reason a "universal" one won't work as long as you have the fittings for the two high pressure switches included in the fittings.