A/C Compressor - External Leak Test
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Ford RV Cutaway, 2008 Ford Econoline, 2008 Ford E450 Super Duty, and 2008 Ford Cutaway. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Install the A/C pressure test adapter on the rear head of the A/C compressor using the existing manifold retaining bolt.
- Connect the high and low pressure lines of a manifold gauge set or a refrigerant recovery/recycling station such as R-134a A/C Service Center to the corresponding fittings on the A/C pressure test adapter.
- Attach the center hose of the manifold gauge set to a refrigerant container standing in an upright position.
- Hand-rotate the compressor shaft 2 complete revolutions to distribute the oil inside the A/C compressor.
- Open the low pressure gauge valve, the high pressure gauge valve and the valve on the refrigerant container to allow the refrigerant vapor to flow into the A/C compressor.
- Using the Refrigerant Leak Detector, check for leaks at the compressor shaft seal, the compressor front/rear head seal and the compressor rear head bolts.
- If an external leak is found, install a new A/C compressor. Refer to CLIMATE CONTROL article.
- When the leak test is complete, recover the refrigerant from the compressor.