Grand Caravan FWD V6-3.3L VIN 3 Flex Fuel (2002)
Refrigerant: Testing and Inspection
Refrigerant System Leaks Test
WARNING: REFER TO THE APPLICABLE WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS FOR THIS SYSTEM BEFORE PERFORMING THE
FOLLOWING OPERATION.
If the air conditioning system is not cooling properly, determine if the refrigerant system is fully-charged.
If the refrigerant system is low or empty; a leak at a refrigerant line, connector fitting, component, or component seal is likely. While an oily residue on
or near refrigerant system lines, connector fittings, components, or component seals can indicate the general location of a possible refrigerant leak, the
exact leak location should be confirmed with an electronic leak detector prior to component repair or replacement. An electronic leak detector designed
for R-134a refrigerant is recommended for locating and confirming refrigerant system leaks. See the operating instructions supplied by the equipment
manufacturer for proper care and use of this equipment.
To detect a leak in the refrigerant system, perform one of the following procedures as indicated by the results of the refrigerant system charge level test.
System Empty
1. Evacuate the refrigerant system.
2. Connect and dispense 0.283 kilograms (0.625 pounds or 10 ounces) of R-134a refrigerant into the evacuated refrigerant system.
3. Proceed to the SYSTEM LOW procedures.
System Low
1. Position the vehicle in a wind-free work area. This will aid in detecting small leaks.
2. Bring the refrigerant system up to operating temperature and pressure. This is done by allowing the engine to run at idle under the following
conditions for five minutes, then turning the engine OFF.
a. Front windows are open.
b. Rear air conditioner OFF (if equipped).
c. Transaxle in Park.
d. Front heater-A/C controls set to outside air, panel mode, blower high, and compressor engaged.
3. Wait five to seven minutes and, with the engine not running, use a electronic R-134a leak detector and search for leaks. Because R-134a
refrigerant is heavier than air, the leak detector probe should be moved slowly along the bottom side of all refrigerant lines, connector fittings and
components.
4. To inspect an evaporator for leaks, insert the electronic leak detector probe into a floor outlet or the recirculation air intake.
