Refrigerant Identification / Testing

NOTE: R-134a requires use of Motorcraft YN-12b refrigerant oil or equivalent meeting Ford specification WSH-M1C231-B.

The refrigerant used in this refrigerant system is R134a. R-134a refrigerant is the only type that can be used in the A/C system.

R-134a systems can be identified by examining the following areas:
^ Vehicle's refrigerant charge tag indicates R-134a service.
^ High and low service charge ports require quick connect adapters to preclude use of R-12 service equipment.

Prior to recovering charging the refrigerant from any vehicle, you must use a refrigerant identifier such as Rotunda A/C Refrigerant Analyzer 198-00001 or equivalent. The refrigerant identifier is used to identify gas samples taken directly from the refrigeration system or storage containers. The identifier will display:
^ either "R-12" or "R-134a" if the purity is better than 98% by weight.
^ "FAIL" if neither of the two gases have been identified of if they are not at least 98% pure.
^ "HC" and a horn will sound if the gas detected contains a hydrocarbon (flammable material).

After analysis is made and displayed, the identifier purges the unit of the sampled refrigerant gas and is ready for the next sample.

If neither R-12 nor R-134a has been identified as 98% pure, do not service the A/C refrigerant system. Always refer to the refrigerant identifier manufacturer's instructions for proper tool usage.