I need to have my condensor replaced as the fitting at the lower left (looking from front) cracked at leaked my freon and lubricant out. Last time I had the system charged the comment was made that my compressor was louder than normal and may also need to be replace in the future, so I was planning on doing this at the same time. I also understand the drier needs to be replaced whenever the system is opened up. I was thinking about doing the mechanical work myself and then taking the vehicle to an AC shop to be charged.

My questions are:

1) Looking through the Bently manual this all loooks fairly straight forward for a DIY job. IHowever, is there a trick way to get the condensor out without taking off the front bunber and grill?

2) Anything I should know before getting into this job? Should I replace all o-rings I encounter? Any other precautions or words of warning.

3) Any suggestions on a good source of parts? Should I use new or rebuilt compressor? Any brands to stay away from?

Any other tips, techniques, gotcha's would be appreciated.

1994 525i, 160,000 miles, manual