Replace condenser on 2000 Toyota Sienna

The Toyota dealer says we need to replace our condenser. They said it
would cost about $600. I called other auto repair shops and they
quoted similar prices. But it seems like everyone is charging a lot
for the condenser. I can find one on the internet for about $152 which
is 1/2 the price the repair shops are charging.

So, I'd like to try to replace it myself.

I have a Haynes manual that says it is a do-it-yourself job as long as
a certifed a/c technician discharges before replacing the condenser and
recharges it after.

One potential problem I see is disconnecting the lines to the
condenser. It looks like there really is no room for me to disconnect
the "liquid line" (Hayne's term). I wonder if I should try from
underneath.

Also, I've heard conflicting information on whether it is also
necessary to replace the receiver/drier at the same time.

I'd appreciate advice from those who have replaced their own
condensers.

Thanks.

- Clint

.

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