Explorer 2WD V6-4.0L VIN K Flex Fuel (2002)
Evaporator Core: Testing and Inspection
On-Vehicle Vacuum Leak Detection W/Refrigerant Service Center
NOTE:
-
If an evaporator core leak is suspected, the evaporator core must be vacuum leak-tested before it is removed from the vehicle.
-
Carry out periodic inspection of the R-134a refrigerant center (including the vacuum pump) and hoses by setting a maintenance schedule. Make
sure that there are no leaks in the equipment.
1. Discharge and recover the refrigerant.
2. With the hoses connected from the R-134a refrigerant center, turn on the vacuum pump.
3. Allow the vacuum pump to operate for a minimum of 45 minutes after the low-pressure gauge indicates 101 kPa (30 in-Hg).
NOTE: The 45-minute evacuation is necessary to remove any refrigerant from the PAG oil left in the system. If the refrigerant is not completely
removed from the PAG oil, outgassing will degrade the vacuum and appear as a refrigerant system leak.
4. If the low-pressure gauge reading does not reach 101 kPa (30 in-Hg) when the vacuum pump is operating, turn off the vacuum pump and observe
the low-pressure gauge. If the vacuum decreases rapidly to zero, a large leak is indicated. Recheck the R-134a refrigerant service center (including
the vacuum pump) and the service gauge port valve connections.
5. After evacuating for 45 minutes, turn off the vacuum pump and observe the low-pressure gauge reading; it should remain at 101 kPa (30 in-Hg).
-
If the low-pressure gauge vacuum reading decreases 34 kPa (10 in-Hg) or more in 10 minutes a refrigerant system leak is indicated.
-
If a very small leak is suspected wait 30 minutes and observe the low-pressure gauge reading.
-
If a small amount of vacuum is lost operate the vacuum pump for an additional 30 minutes to remove any remaining refrigerant from the PAG
oil in the refrigerant system. Recheck for a loss of vacuum.
-
If a very small leak is suspected allow the system to set overnight with vacuum applied and check for vacuum loss.
6. If it has been determined that a leak is present, divide the refrigerant system in half to assist in determining where to start and isolate the leak.
Continue to subtract components being leak tested until the leak has been identified.
