Is this condenser ok?

[GrumpierGrunt]

I picked up a condenser on fleabay and it looked fine but I noticed that some of the fins were pushed in. The seller said it should be fine and it will hold just fine. I just wanted to see what the forum thinks before I install it and spend $80 to charge it up.
Thoughts?

 

[Shran]

Bummer but I'd run it. Doesn't look like there's any damage to the tubes, just the little fins between them. You can probably straighten them out with a small pick or screwdriver.

 

[Snoranger]

I wouldn’t give it a second thought.

 

[RonD]

Only test is a PRESSURE test, but I agree with the others, the shown "damage" would not be a concern to me

 

[Curious Hound]

I agree. Looks minor. As Ron said, the only true test is a pressure test. I've straightened fins that were a lot worse than that. Very carefully and patiently use a tiny screwdriver to straighten them. A plastic tool would be better. Possibly even a plastic knife from your last take-out food order. You can shape/sharpen it with sandpaper or a file and make it the exact shape you need to pry the fins open.

 

[rubydist]

As the others have said, that should be fine, but I have seen the fins bent like that actually tear a small hole in the tube - that is why its worth getting a pressure test before installing and charging it.

 

[19Walt93]

It won't be a problem but I'd straighten the fins. This is why cooling fin pliers were invented.

 

[GrumpierGrunt]

Hi Everyone, I like to procrastinate, but just had the system charged up and is holding well. Thanks all for the reassurance!

 

[superj]

also, they make radiator combs too. they look like the plastic guards on hair trimmers and are for straightening out fins