Charging the System

A/C System Charging. Chevrolet & GMC w/C.C.O.T. system:

Refer to Heating and Air Conditioning/Specifications/Capacities for refrigerant capacities.

J-23500-01 CHARGING STATION METHOD
Use instructions provided with charging station with the following exceptions:
1. Do not connect high pressure line to A/C system.
2. Always keep high pressure valve closed on charging station.
3. Perform all evacuation and charging through low-side pressure service fitting.
- Use of these procedures will prevent charging station from being accidentally exposed to high-side system pressure.

DISPOSABLE CAN OR REFRIGERANT DRUM METHOD

WARNING: Never use these cans to charge into the high pressure side of the system (compressor discharge port) or into a system that is at high temperature, because the high system pressures could be transferred into the charging can causing it to explode.

If R-12 drum is used, place on scale and note total weight before charging. During charging, watch scale to determine amount of R-12 used. If 14 ounce R-12 cans are used, close tapping valve, then attach cans following instructions included with manifold adapter.
1. Start engine and allow to warm up, normal idle. Set A/C control lever to "OFF."
2. With R-12 drum or cans inverted, open R-12 supply valve and allow 1 lb. or more of liquid R-12 to flow into system through low-side service fitting.
3. When 1 lb. of refrigerant has entered system, engage compressor by setting A/C lever to NORM and blower switch to HI to draw in remainder of charge. Cooling the condenser with a fan will speed up charging procedure by maintaining condenser temperature below that of the charging cylinder temperature.
4. Close refrigerant supply valve and run engine for 30 seconds to clear lines and gauges.
5. With engine running, remove charging low-side hose adapter from accumulator service fitting.

NOTE: Unscrew rapidly to avoid excessive refrigerant loss.

6. Replace protective cap on accumulator fitting and turn engine "OFF."
7. Check system for leaks.
8. Start engine and check for proper system operation.