Check For Leaks
EXTERNAL LEAK TEST1. Key ON, engine running.
2. Turn the A/C system on.
3. Use a Rotunda R-134a Automatic Calibration Halogen Leak Detector 023-R1000 or equivalent to check the A/C compressor for leaks.
4. Check the A/C compressor front and rear seals, the center housing seal, the shaft seal, the low- and high-pressure line seals, and around the A/C compressor cylinder bolt heads for leakage.
5. After checking the A/C compressor for leaks, turn the A/C system off.
6. Key OFF.
7. If an external leak is found at the:
- Thermal protection switch seal, high or low pressure line seals, shaft seal or rear cover seal, service the seal on the A/C compressor.
- Front seal of the A/C compressor body or the center housing assembly, install a new A/C compressor.
- Cylinder bolt head, remove the cylinder bolt and inspect the underside of the cylinder bolt head along with the sealing surface the cylinder bolt contacts. If the cylinder bolt is damaged, replace it. If damage is found to the A/C compressor case, replace the A/C compressor.
If a new bolt is installed and the A/C compressor still leaks, replace the A/C compressor.
8. Retest the A/C compressor if it was serviced.