A/C question

[transamdude99]

Im not sure if im posting this in the right section but i had a question about my AC. It turns on but doesnt blow cold air so i took it to a local dealership and they wanted over $200 to recharge it, and that was a couple years ago so i can only guess it went up. However, while i was in line at an auto parts store the other day i noticed those coolant cans to do it yourself and i wondered if anyone has ever used these or would ever use these on their cars? should i buy one and try it out or is it safer having a shop do it?

[Too Fast]

You can use these, but you must know what you're doing. Also, how do you know the AC comes on? Did you check to see if the clutch engages? Just because the vents flow with air when you select the AC settings on the dash doesn't mean the AC compressor is on. Also, if the freon is low, then there is a sensor in the system to prevent the AC clutch from engaging, regardless of your dash selection. If you've never done it before or watched someone, then I suggest you do some research first.

It's not hard to learn, I just wouldn't want you to overcharge it or make a new problem that wasn't there before. And the best way to do it would be go somewhere and have them evacuate the system, recharge it with some dye, so you may be able to find a leak later. That way you know for sure the correct charge is installed.

[2002ssslp]

You need to know a little about A/C before you do the job but it is not too hard. First you must evacuate the system but if you do not have a vacuum for A/C systems then just take the low pressure cap off and discharge whatever is left in the system. Then take a paperclip " Metal " and jump the low pressure switch to see if the clutch engauges. If it does then you need to buy two 12oz cans of 134a and a small can of A/C oil with dye. With the proper A/C service manifolds and the car running with A/C system on and switched to cold you add the oil first, your compressor should kick on. remember to shake the can upside down a few times until it is empty. Then add the first can of 134a the same way until empty then the second. I do not think you need two whole cans but check the sticker under the hood for capacity. That should get you cold again. The oil you buy should have dye in it so look for a bright color somewhere in the system. That would be your leak. If your clutch does ot click on when you jump the system then you need to take it to a repair shop. Good luck.

[SMWS6TA]

One more thing I'll add. The parts stores sell AC gauges to check the pressure level. It is worth getting them to help prevent overfilling the system.

[az gt eater]

I just go down to the auto place, buy the can , charge it in the parking lot, drive away. Do it every year, cost me 25 bucks. It leaks, sure. Not worried, though. $25 a year. No brainer for me.

[Too Fast]

^^^easy to do after the first time, eh?

[az gt eater]

^^^easy to do after the first time, eh?

I don't get what you mean.

[Too Fast]

^^^I just meant it's easy to do, after you know how. Especially so if the connection is easy to get to. (low side connection)

For someone who has never done something like this, it could be a bit intimidating.

[az gt eater]

Gotcha,yes it is easy. And,the nozzle has a gauge right on it.

[2002ssslp]

Works out either way.

[transamdude99]

Thanks for all of the input, much appreciated