Hombre S Regular Cab 4WD V6-4.3L (1999)
detected. Calibrate the instrument according to the included instructions. Ensure that the detector is properly calibrated for the type of refrigerant that
you are testing. Place the GAS switch in the R-134a setting prior to testing.
Most leaks are found at the refrigerant fittings and connections. These leaks can be caused by the following conditions:
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Improper torque
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Damaged O-rings
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Lack of lubricant on the O-ring seals
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Dirt or debris on the O-ring seals.
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Lint from cotton gloves or shop cloths
IMPORTANT: Follow the refrigerant system around a continuous path so that no potential leaks are missed. Test all areas of the system in order to
ensure the entire system is leak free, even if you have already found a leak.
Observe the scan rate and follow the manufacturer's instructions when using the electronic leak detector. Encircle each joint with the tip of the probe
moving at 25 - 51 mm (1 - 2 in) per second. Ensure that the tip of the probe is no more than 6 mm (0.25 in) away from the surface without blocking the
air intake. An audible tone that goes from 1 - 2 clicks per second to a solid alarm indicates a leak. Adjust the balance arm frequently in order to maintain
the clicks.
Use this procedure in order to test the following components:
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The evaporator inlet and outlet
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The accumulator inlet and outlet
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All of the brazed and welded areas
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Areas that show signs of damage
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Hose couplings
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The compressor rear head
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Housing joints
Service Ports/Access Valves
The sealing cap is the primary seal for the service ports. The cap contains a specially designed O-ring or gasket that provides a leak-free seal. The
following conditions will result in a loss of refrigerant charge:
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A missing cap
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A wrong cap
Evaporator Core
Leaks in the evaporator core are the most difficult to find. Use the following procedure in order to test the core:
1. Turn on the blower fan to HI for 15 seconds or longer.
2. Turn off the blower fan.
3. Wait 10 minutes.
4. Remove the blower motor resistor. Refer to Blower Motor Resistor Replacement.
5. Insert the leak detector probe as close to the evaporator as possible. If the detector emits a solid alarm, a leak has been found.
6. Use a flashlight in order to visually inspect the core face for evidence of refrigerant oil.
Compressor Block Fitting and Shaft Seal
1. Blow shop air behind the compressor/clutch pulley and in front of the compressor/clutch pulley for at least 15 seconds.
2. Wait 1 - 2 minutes.
3. Use the detector in order to probe the area in front of the pulley.
If the detector emits a solid alarm, a leak has been found
NOTE: The use of proper wrenches when loosening or making connections is important. A backup wrench should be used on the brazed or welded
fitting to prevent distortion of A/C lines.
Important
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Before opening the refrigeration system, make sure the work area is well ventilated. Welding or steam-cleaning operations should not be done on
or near refrigeration system lines or other air conditioning parts on the vehicle.
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All metal tubing lines should be free of dents or kinks to prevent loss of system capacity due to line restriction.
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The flexible hose lines should never be bent to a radius of less than four times the diameter of the hose.
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The flexible hose lines should never be allowed to come within a distance of 6.5 mm (2.5 inches) of the exhaust manifold.
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Flexible hose lines should be inspected regularly for leaks or brittleness. Replace with new lines if deterioration or leaking is found.
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When disconnecting any fitting in the refrigerant system, recover all Refrigerant-134a. However, proceed very cautiously, regardless of the gauge
readings. Open very slowly, keeping your face and hands away so that no injury can occur. If pressure is noticed when a fitting is loosened, allow
it to bleed off very slowly.
NOTE: Never use alcohol in the refrigeration system to remove moisture. Damage to the system components may occur.
