4runner. 3.0 4x4 with auto trans. My AC had a leak in the front seal, but ac would work fine if I kept it charged. AC would pull down to 40 degrees within seconds. I decided to change the compressor with a new one. With the new compressor the temp would not pull down to less than 60 degrees and the engine would run hot at idle and when shut off it takes over an hour for the pressures to equalize. I had the manufacture send me a new compressor. I also bought a new evaporator, condenser TXV valve, receiver dryer and hoses. Set it all up and still spiking only pulling down to 60 and pressures still not equalizing. Since then I have tried three different TXV valves and all working the same. We have evacuated it several times to adjust the refrigerant level to get peak cooling. Ended up using only 20 oz. to get the peak performance, started at 27 oz. It now will get to 45 degrees after about 7 to 8 miles of driving. Best I can figure the compressor reed valves are to stiff or I have an air flow problem with the cooling system. I have had the radiator rotted out and cored (3 row brass), replaced all hoses flushed,replaced thermostat and fan clutch. Still running the same. Engine does not over heat with AC off. I am at my wits end with this issue. I may considering getting a used low mileage Toyota compressor and cleaning it out and resealing it then install it and see if it makes a difference. There seems to be two schools of thought on the radiator, one being to use a one row radiator to increase air flow over the radiator and condenser and the other is to use an aluminum 3 row radiator.
Does any one have any thoughts on this?