A/C - System Leak Detection
NUMBER: 24-009-02GROUP: Heating & A/C
DATE: Oct. 28, 2002
SUBJECT:
A/C System Leak Detection
MODELS AFFECTED:
NOTE:
THIS BULLETIN APPLIES TO VEHICLES USING R-134A REFRIGERANT IN THE A/C SYSTEM.
EQUIPMENT REQUIRED
DISCUSSION:
Vehicles from the factory no longer have leak detection dye in the A/C system.
To determine the source of R-134a leak:
1. Add dye to the system. Using BSL-734 R-134a Dye Injector (or equivalent) add 7.39 ml (0.25 oz.) of BSL-712 leak tracer dye through the A/C system low pressure service port
NOTE:
THE DYE INJECTOR HOLDS EXACTLY 7.39 ml (0.25 oz.) OF LEAK TRACER DYE.
2. Clean dye from surfaces. Any spilled dye should be cleaned from surfaces using BG-795 Fluorescent Dye Cleaner (or equivalent).
NOTE:
ANY DYE ON THE EXTERIOR OF THE A/C COMPONENTS MAY LATER BE DIAGNOSED AS A LEAK.
3. Operate the system. This will thoroughly mix the dye with the system lubricant. The operating time needed for the dye/lubricant to penetrate the leak(s) will depend on the size of the leak. A very small leak could take hours or days of system operation to appear.
4. Check for leaks. Using a BF-750 12 volt UV Lamp (or equivalent), scan all lines, fittings, and components. The exact location of the leak(s) will be pinpointed by a bright yellow/green glow of dye. When checking for evaporator leak(s) shine the UV light at the evaporator drain hole to check for traces of dye. If traces of dye appear at the drain hole, check the evaporator and connections when the unit is removed from the vehicle. Verify leak location.
5. Install Identification sticker. Place one of the dye ID stickers (included with dye) in a prominent location showing that the vehicle has a fluorescent dye in the NC system that can be used to detect future leaks. The dye will not effect the operation or durability of the NC system.
POLICY:
Information Only