Questions on replacing AC condenser for 2011 XC90 I32

[rred]

We had an accident (hit a deer on highway) out of town. A local mechanic removed the AC condenser and replaced the radiator so that we could drive back home. The AC condenser was not put back because the impact bar was bent and no enough place for the condenser. I've replaced the impact bar and got a new AC condenser. After checking online, I think there are three steps to replace the condenser. 

Step 1. evacuate the system.
Step 2. put back the condenser.
Step 3. recharge the system. (I don't think I can do it myself. Will bring it to a mechanic shop.)

My questions are:
1. Since the condenser has been removed for about three weeks. Probabaly no need for step 1?
2. Since the condensor has been removed for a relatively long time (~ 3 weeks), do I need any special treatment for the system before/after putting back the condensor? 
3. Should I worry about other parts of the AC? AC worked well before the accident and anything after the radiator looks untouched. 

Thanks a lot!

[Roger_850T]

Hi rred,

I don't think you can evacuate the system if it's open. So you're right, you really can't do step 1.

Install the condenser. I would put in a new drier at the same time. The drier will pull moisture out of the air, and if the system has been open for a few weeks, it's probably saturated.

There's a capacity valve on the compressor that tends to stick as the unit ages. On mine, it doesn't provide cold air until the engine rpm's have been up for a bit. (I drive out of the neighborhood holding it in 2nd gear to get there faster.) I intend to replace mine the next time I have the AC system opened up, but I haven't needed to yet. You may want to include this in your scope.

Before recharging, I would pull a vacuum on it and leave it for many hours. (I do 12+ hours - overnight, at least.) This does two things - first, any moisture that's in there will boil off and can be subsequently removed by running the vacuum pump some more, and second, it checks for leaks. It should not lose any vacuum in 12 hours; if it does, it won't hold refrigerant, so find the leak and fix before charging.

I hope this helps!

Roger