Refrigerant System Tests

Refrigerant System Tests

Service Access Gauge Port Valves
The refrigerant system has a high-pressure (discharge) and a low-pressure (suction) gauge port valve. These are Schrader-type valves which provide access to both sides (high-pressure and low-pressure) of the system for service hoses and a manifold gauge set so that system pressures can be read.

Checking for A/C Leaks

WARNING: GOOD VENTILATION IS NECESSARY IN THE AREA WHERE A/C LEAK TESTING IS TO BE PERFORMED. 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.

Leak Detector, Electronic
1. Attach Rotunda R-134a A/C Manifold Gauge Set 176-R032A or equivalent, to the service gauge port valves.
2. Leave both manifold gauge set valves closed. Both gauges should indicate approximately 413-551 kPa (60-80 psi) at 24�C (75� F) with the engine OFF.
3. If very little or no pressure is indicated, charge the refrigerant system.
4. Leak test the refrigerant system using Rotunda R-134a Automatic Calibration Halogen Leak Detector 161-R0010 or equivalent.
- The Rotunda R-134a Automatic Calibration Halogen Leak Detector 161-R0010, or equivalent, will automatically calibrate itself when switched to the ON position.
- Move the leak detector probe slowly, approximately 25.4 mm (1 inch) per second, past the suspected area.
- When escaping refrigerant gas is detected, a ticking or beeping signal will be heard.
- As the amount of refrigerant gas detected increases, the rate of the ticking or beeping increases.
- If the refrigerant gas is relatively concentrated, the signal will become increasingly shrill.
- Follow the instructions included with the leak detector for proper handling and operating techniques.
5. If a leak is found in the refrigerant system, recover the refrigerant and service the system.