Leak Detection
Leak Detection
1. Remove the A/C compressor from the vehicle.
2. Install A/C pressure test adaptor to the A/C compressor using the existing manifold bolt.
3. Connect the high and low pressure lines of R-134a manifold gauge set to the fittings on A/C pressure test adaptor.
4. Attach the center hose of R-134a manifold gauge set to a refrigerant container standing in an upright position.
5. Hand rotate the compressor shaft ten revolutions to distribute the oil inside the A/C compressor.
6. Open the low and high pressure gauge valves and the valve on the refrigerant container to allow the refrigerant vapor to flow into the A/C compressor.
7. Use R-134a automatic calibration halogen leak detector to check for leaks at the compressor shaft seal and the compressor center seal.
8. If a shaft seal leak is found, install a new shaft seal. If a leak is found at the compressor center seal, install a new A/C compressor.
9. When the leak test is finished, close the manifold gauge valves and the valve on the refrigerant container.
10. Slowly remove the gauge set hoses from A/C pressure test adapter. Allow the refrigerant in the compressor to escape.
11. Install the A/C compressor on the vehicles.
12. Evacuate, charge and leak test the system.
Leak Detection
1. Attach R-134a manifold gauge set to the service gauge port valves.
- Leave both R-134a manifold gauge set valves closed.
- Both gauges should indicate 413 - 551 kPa (60 - 80 psi) at 24 degree (75 degree F) with the engine off.
- If little or no pressure is indicated, charge the refrigerant system.
WARNING: Good ventilation is necessary in the area where A/C leak testing is to be carried out. If the surrounding air is contaminated with refrigerant gas, the leak detector will indicate this gas all the time. Odors from other chemicals such as antifreeze, diesel fuel, disc brake cleaner, or other cleaning solvents can cause the same problem. A fan, even in a well ventilated area, is very helpful in removing small traces of contamination from the air that might affect the leak detector. Failure to follow this instruction may result in personal injury.
2. Use R134-a Automatic calibration halogen leak detector to leak test the refrigerant system. Follow the instructions included with leak detector for handling and operation techniques.
3. If a leak is found, reclaim the refrigerant.
Leak Detection
1. Check for leaks using 120 Watt UV Spot Lamp.
NOTE:
- On vehicles with R-134a Leak Trace Dye incorporated into the A/C system. The exact location of leaks can be pinpointed by the bright yellow-green glow of the tracer dye. Since more than one leak may exist, always inspect each component. If it is necessary to add dye, use Dye Injector. A/C systems require 7.39 ml (0.25 oz.) of Fluoro-Light/P Fluorescent Tracer Dye 164-R3712.
- Some vehicles may have signs of refrigerant oil at the spring lock couplers. This may be caused from the assembly process which applies to the fittings before installation to aid in assembly. When a spring lock coupler is suspected of leaking,always wipe the fitting clean and verify the leak with R-134a Automatic Calibration Halogen Leak Detector.
2. Scan all components, fittings and lines of the A/C system.
3. After the leak is repaired, remove any traces of leak dye with a general purpose oil solvent.
4. Verify the repair by operating the system for a short time and inspecting with the UV lamp.