Freon leak
Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 3,011
Likes: 9
From: Dublin GA
Freon leak
My wifes car apparently has a slow freon leak. For the last two years, I've had to add a can to it and then it's fine for the year. I would assume I have a a o-ring leak somewhere, but dont really have any trustworthy mechanics that wont charge based on the car. 
Are there any particular areas that are more of an issue than others?
Are there any particular areas that are more of an issue than others?
Race Director
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 13,421
Likes: 8
From: Lake Mary Florida
When you added was it the recharge with dye? If so, then a black light should reveal the problem area. You really need a set of AC gages to truly tell what's going on. They are not that expensive and it is the correct way to add.
You have o-rings at every connection point. Off the top of my head I think like 8-10, some very specific like the seals on the back of the compressor, or those on the accumulator. It could be a pin leak in the evaporator, or the compressor is at the end of it's life.
Can be a DIY if you have the right tools and lots of patience. And knowing the tricks to get at certain fasteners that none of these instructions cover! Ask me how I know this
You have o-rings at every connection point. Off the top of my head I think like 8-10, some very specific like the seals on the back of the compressor, or those on the accumulator. It could be a pin leak in the evaporator, or the compressor is at the end of it's life.
Can be a DIY if you have the right tools and lots of patience. And knowing the tricks to get at certain fasteners that none of these instructions cover! Ask me how I know this
Drifting
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 1,454
Likes: 6
From: Pittsburgh PA
Not saying it's the case but compressor shaft seals are the most common leak. Most shops here swap the compressor rather than attempt changing the seal. Look for any damp areas. As the gas escapes, so does a small amout of the oil.
Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 3,011
Likes: 9
From: Dublin GA
Thanks guys
I do have guages I use to put the freon in
Had thought about the dye, but wasn't sure how well it worked.
The car has some years on it, so I know the o-rings are getting some age on them, but I hope its not around the compressor. I hate to even swap the belt on it
I do have guages I use to put the freon in
Had thought about the dye, but wasn't sure how well it worked.
The car has some years on it, so I know the o-rings are getting some age on them, but I hope its not around the compressor. I hate to even swap the belt on it
Race Director
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 13,421
Likes: 8
From: Lake Mary Florida
I was there a few weeks ago. I replaced my compressor and accumulator, it's an '01 with 74K on it. Compressor was just worn out. AC-Delco stamped on the side "Made in China" of course what isn't these days.
