Refrigerant: Testing and Inspection

REFRIGERANT SYSTEM LEAK
If A/C system is not cooling properly determine if refrigerant system is fully charged with R-134a. This is accomplished by performing a system Charge Level-Check or Fill. If while performing this test A/C liquid line pressure is less than 345 kPa (50 psi) proceed to Refrigerant System Empty. If liquid line pressure is greater than 345 kPa (50 psi) proceed to Refrigerant System Low. If refrigerant system is empty or low a leak at a line fitting or component seal is likely. Check the fittings, lines and components for oily residue, this is an indication of a leak.

Refrigerant System Empty
1. Evacuate the refrigerant system to the lowest degree of vacuum possible (approx. 28 in Hg.). Determine if the system holds a vacuum for 15 minutes. If vacuum is held, a leak is probably not present. If system will not maintain vacuum level, proceed with this procedure.
2. Prepare a 0.284 Kg. (10 oz.) refrigerant charge to be injected into the system.
3. Connect and dispense 0.284 Kg. (10 oz.) of refrigerant into the evacuated refrigerant system.
4. Proceed to Low Refrigerant Level Leak Test.

Refrigerant System Low
1. Determine if there is any R-134a refrigerant in the system.
2. Position the vehicle in a wind free work area. This will aid in detecting small leaks.
3. Bring the refrigerant system up to operating temperature and pressure. This is done by allowing the engine to run for five minutes with the system set to the following:
- Transaxle in Park
- Engine Idling at 700 rpm
- A/C Controls Set in 100 percent outside air
- Blower switch in the high A/C position
- A/C in the ON position
- Open all windows

CAUTION: Leak detectors designed for R-12 refrigerant (only) will not detect leaks in a R-134a refrigerant system.

4. Shut off the vehicle and wait 2 to 7 minutes. Then use an Electronic Leak Detector that is designed to detect R-134a type refrigerant and search for leaks. Fittings, lines, or components that appear to be oily usually indicates a refrigerant leak. To inspect the evaporator core for leaks, insert the leak detector probe into the drain tube opening or a heat duct.

NOTE: A R-134a dye is available to aid in leak detection. Use only Chrysler approved refrigerant dye.If a thorough leak check has been completed without indication of a leak, proceed to System Charge Level.