Component Tests and General Diagnostics

Special Tools

Description Tool Number
Rotunda R-134a Automatic Calibration Halogen Leak Detector 023-R1003
R-134a Manifold Gauge Set 176-0032A
120 Watt UV Spot Lamp 164-R0721
Dye Injector 164-R3711

Electronic Leak Detector

WARNING: GOOD VENTILATION IS NECESSARY IN THE AREA WHERE A/C LEAK TESTING IS TO BE PERFORMED. IF THE SURROUNDING AIR IS CONTAMINATED WITH REFRIGERANT GAS, THE LEAK DETECTOR WILL INDICATE THIS GAS ALL THE TIME. ODORS FROM OTHER CHEMICALS SUCH AS ANTIFREEZE, DIESEL FUEL, DISC BRAKE CLEANER, OR OTHER CLEANING SOLVENTS CAN CAUSE THE SAME PROBLEM. A FAN, EVEN IN A WELL VENTILATED AREA, IS VERY HELPFUL IN REMOVING SMALL TRACES OF CONTAMINATION FROM THE AIR THAT MIGHT AFFECT THE LEAK DETECTOR.

1. Attach R-134a Manifold Gauge Set to the service gauge port valves.
- Leave both manifold gauge set valves closed.
- Both gauges should indicate 413-551 kPa (60-80 psi) at 24°C (75°F) with the engine off.
- If little or no pressure is indicated, charge the refrigerant system.
2. Use R-134a Automatic Calibration Halogen Leak Detector to leak test the refrigerant system. Follow instructions included with leak detector for handling and operation techniques.
3. If a leak is found, recover the refrigerant and the system.

Leak Tracer Dye

NOTE:
- Ford Motor Company now produces vehicles with R-134a Leak Tracer Dye incorporated into the A/C system. The exact location of leaks can be pinpointed by the bright yellow-green glow of the tracer dye. Since more than one leak may exist, always inspect each component. If it is necessary to add dye, use Dye Injector. A/C systems require 7.39 ml (0.25 oz) of Fluoro-Lite/P (R) Fluorescent Tracer Dye 164-R3712.
- Some vehicles may have signs of refrigerant oil at the spring lock couplers. This may be caused from the assembly process which applies to the fittings before installation to aid in assembly. When a spring lock coupler is suspected of leaking, always wipe the fitting clean and verify the leak with Rotunda R-134a Automatic Calibration Halogen Leak Detector.

1. Check for leaks using 120 Watt UV Spot Lamp.
2. Scan all components, fittings and lines of the A/C system.
3. After the leak is repaired, remove any traces of leak dye with a general purpose oil solvent.
4. Verify the repair by operating the system for a short time and inspecting with the UV lamp.