Evacuation and Charging

SYSTEM CHARGING SET-UP
Ford Motor Company recommends using a Rotunda R-134a Service Center 176-00001 or equivalent to perform evacuation and charging of the refrigerant system. Follow the instructions provided with the R-134a Service Center 176-00001.

If a R-134a Service Center 176-00001 is not available, system charging may be accomplished using a Rotunda R-134a 1.5 CFM Vacuum Pump 176-00033, charging cylinder, and Rotunda R-134a Manifold Gauge Set 176-00032. The use of small cans of refrigerant is NOT recommended.

If the charging cylinder method is used, the center port of the manifold gauge set should have two refrigerant hoses with integral shut-off valves built into the manifold gauge set. The Rotunda R-134a Manifold Gauge Set 176-00032 is equipped in this manner. If the gauge set is the type that does not have shut-off valves and two hoses at the center port, a tee fitting and two hoses should be installed at the center port. In addition, the hoses attached to the center port should have shut-off valves at the other ends of the two center hoses to prevent air from entering the hoses when not connected to the vacuum pump and charging cylinder.


CHARGING WITH A CHARGING CYLINDER
1. With the Rotunda R-134a Manifold Gauge Set 176-00032 or equivalent valves closed, disconnect the Rotunda R-134a 1.5 CFM Vacuum Pump 176-00033 or equivalent from the manifold gauge set.
2. Connect the center hose of the manifold gauge set to a refrigerant charging cylinder. If a Rotunda R-134a Service Center 176-00001 or equivalent is used, follow the instructions of the manufacturer.
3. Loosen the center hose at the manifold gauge set and open the refrigerant charging cylinder valve. This will allow refrigerant to escape, purging air and moisture from the center hose.
4. Tighten the center hose connection at the manifold gauge set.
5. Disconnect the electrical connector from the A/C cyclic switch, then install a jumper wire across the two terminals of the connector.
6. Open the low-pressure valve on the manifold gauge set to allow refrigerant to enter the system. Keep the refrigerant cylinder in an upright position.
7. When no more refrigerant is being drawn into the system, start the engine. Set the temperature control lever to the COLD position, turn the A/C blower motor on HIGH, and press the A/C switch to draw the remaining refrigerant into the system.
8. Continue to add refrigerant until the specified weight of Refrigerant-134a is in the system. Then close the manifold gauge set low-pressure valve and the refrigerant supply valve.
9. Remove the jumper wire, then connect the electrical connector to the A/C cyclic switch.
10. Operate the system until the pressure stabilizes. Check for proper operation and system pressures.

NOTE: When working in high room temperatures, it may be necessary to operate a high-volume fan positioned to blow air through the radiator and condenser. This will aid in cooling the radiator and A/C condenser core, and preventing excessive refrigerant system pressures.

11. When charging is completed and system operating pressures are normal, disconnect the manifold gauge set from the vehicle. Install the protective caps on the service gauge port valves.