"**What this part does**
Carries the suction and discharge reed valves and forms the pressure-tight joint between the cylinder block and the cylinder head — the 'breathing' part of the compressor.
**Where it is installed**
The Compressor Valve Plate Assembly is located between the cylinder block and the cylinder head, at the top of the compressor.
**Symptoms of a failed valve plate assembly**
A worn or damaged valve plate assembly shows up as one or more of these symptoms:
- Weak cooling, or cooling that fades away at idle and low engine speed
- Cooling takes much longer than normal and the cabin never really cools down
- Low-side pressure too high and high-side pressure too low although the compressor is still turning
- Knocking, ticking or rattling from the compressor when the A/C clutch engages
- Heavy carbon deposit, scoring or a warped sealing face found when the head is removed
- In severe cases a broken reed lets gas blow back — no cooling at all
**When to replace**
Replace whenever the compressor is opened for a rebuild, when a reed is cracked or missing, when the plate face is warped or scored, or when carbon build-up stops the reeds from seating.
**Why choose this part**
Supplied as a direct replacement for the original part. Always compare the dimensions, hole layout and finish with your original part before ordering.
**Ordering note**
Valve plate assemblies are matched by outline, bolt-hole pattern, port layout and thickness — compare all of these with the original part before ordering.
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