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A/C - Tracer Dye Usage Recommendations

TSB: 07-005/06

MULTI-MODEL - USE OF A/C TRACER DYE

NOTE:
This bulletin replaces U-008/97. Please update your records accordingly.

BULLETIN NOTE
This bulletin supersedes the previous bulletin U-008/97, issued on 05/19/97. The APPLICABLE MODELS has been revised.

APPLICABLE MODEL(S)/VINS
1997-2003 Protege
1997-2005 Miata
1997-2002 626
1997-2002 Millenia
1997-2006 MPV
2003-2004 Mazda6 (produced before April 29, 2004)
2004-2007 Mazda3
2004-2007 RX-8
2006-2007 Mazda5
2006-2007 MX-5
2007 CX-7

NOTE:
1994-2007 B-Series, 2001-2006 Tribute, and 2004-2007 Mazda6 have A/C tracer dye in their system from the factory.

DESCRIPTION

This bulletin describes how to use florescent A/C leak detecting tracer dye and light for finding minute, intermittent leaks.

NOTE:
Most electronic leak detectors can detect small steady leaks, but are ineffective on minute, intermittent leaks.

REPAIR PROCEDURE

1. Follow the A/C tracer dye manufacturers instructions.

NOTE:
Different manufacturers have different methods for installing, measuring, and diagnosing with their particular product.

CAUTION:
Use only a tracer dye that is compatible with the type of refrigerant and oil in the vehicle's A/C system.The misuse of tracer dye can lead to misdiagnosis and unnecessary parts replacement.

2. After repairing the leak, clean the area that is covered with A/C tracer dye.

NOTE:
Cleaning the area will prevent a future technician from mistaking this residue as a current leak.

3. When diagnosing an A/C leak on a vehicle that previously had tracer dye installed, thoroughly clean the suspected area and re-verify the leak prior to repairing.

4. After repairing the leak, evacuate and recharge the system as outlined in the Workshop Manual.

NOTE:
^ DO NOT add additional A/C tracer dye when recharging the system.

^ Flushing or changing the A/C oil is not necessary.

^ Small amounts of the tracer dye will be found in the Recovery/Recycling tank if recovery is necessary.





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