Low Temp Compressor Oil Change?

[Sweeper]

I'm thinking of changing the POE oil in my compressor for the following reason. The compressor was sealed under pressure with nitrogen from the manufacturer and I broke the line loose and nitrogen started to leak out. The line was immediately grimp and brazed, but about a week later I opened the line again and there was no pressure on the line. So, I figure the line did not braze completely shut and the remaining nitrogen leaked out during the week. I brazed the line again and filled with nitrogen and it holds pressure.

Now, I wonder if during the week, maybe the oil was contaminated with moisture, so I'm thinking of changing the oil. I purchased a gallon of Solest 31-HE POE oil.... but, later found out it is designed for medium temps and I'm not sure if I should take the chance of using the oil. I read Solest LT-32 POE oil is designed for low temps and will extend the life of the compressor.

What do you guys think..... don't worry about changing the oil or change the oil using the Solest 31-HE or buy the Solest LT-32?

Thanks for any suggestions!

[killermiller]

The difference is viscosity. At low temperature the 31-HE may be to thick and you may lose efficiency because the compressor has to work harder against the oil.

[godmod]

If the tubes were closed there was no chance for any moisture to get into the compressor and contaminate the oil. it would take months or years until the oil is contaminated.

[Sweeper]

The pipe was crimp close, but was not brazed air tight. I was thinking there couldn't been very much moisture enter the crimp pipe....but, I was told moisture still could have gotten in the compressor and it was best to change the oil. I was also told that POE oil could be contaminated within a few days.

I would hate to ruin a low temp compressor....I'm just not sure what I should do. I guess the big mystery for me is how long POE oil can be exposed, before it is contaminated.

[jinu117]

Why don't you check the oil before going through all trouble? It might not be contaminated too much to point where you will have to replace it. It cost money either way though...

[Sweeper]

I was thinking of tring acid alert......do you think this would be a good product to test the moisture contamination? Does anyone know how long POE can be exposed?

67240

[killermiller]

Even though is wasn't air tight, the positive pressure may have leaked but once it equalized the nitrogen wouldn't have moved.