When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Every year after I take my C5 out of storage the A/C doesn't work. The mechanic I use says there's an O ring seal that hardens from lack of use and the Freon leaks out. He says once you use the car the seal gets lubricated and all is fine.
Every season the mechanic recharges the system then the A/C works great and lasts the whole driving season.
So, I've never done this before but, what is the best self system to buy and recharge the system myself? Also, is there any instructional C5 videos out there for the 1st timer???
To properly do this you'll need an A/C manifold gauge set and a thermometer.
Take a look at this post. It has detailed instructions to check/add refrigerant.
-These are the CliffsNotes:
Check your pressures against the chart below. Make sure you take your readings with:
Engine @ 2000 rpm
A/C in coldest setting
Fan at maximum speed
Both windows down
Thermometer in center air vent
When adding refrigerant, pay attention to both pressures, otherwise you might end up with the high side sky-high trying to get the low side to the chart's value.
There are so many informative videos out there it can make my head spin. Most are not C5 specific, but the information is really similar from car to car. A simple charge only kit will do, but there is just so much more to glean from a dual gage kit and review of some of the internet information. The HF kit goes for $60 (before the ubiquitous 20% off coupon), though -- for reasons I can not imagine -- it doesn't come with a can tap, so you have to get that in addition.
So, you can get a $30 kit -- and it will work -- but all it tells you is where low side pressure is.
Or you can spend ~$70 and look at low side, high side, add leak check ($20 kit with light and glasses), anti-leak, draw vacuum should you chose to, etc.
I don't know why, but I like to watch Scotty Kilmer videos:
The Best A/C Recharge Kit
