New to A/C Work

[HighMileageVert]

Hi Everyone!

I know my 95 vert has a fairly new A/C compressor in it, but a leak in one of the hoses has let all of the 134a out. I've purchased the hose assembly, and I think I'm going to try to tackle replacing it. The questions I have:

1. I read that I should replace the accumulator as well, so I purchased it. What I'm unclear about is how much oil I need to add to the system when all is said and done. Do I need to measure what was in the old accumulator? Is there a way to get all the old oil out?

2. Again about oil. what kind should I use?? Online, I'm seeing about two billion different viscosity types and whatnot, and can't find any direction as to what our cars use.

3. How exactly does the oil/refrigerant adding process work?

Thanks a million in advance; I greatly appreciate it!

 

[HighMileageVert]

Well, I found this in the Service Manual CD:

"R-134a requires use of Motorcraft YN-12b refrigerant oil or equivalent meeting Ford specification WSH-M1C231-B"

But I don't feel like I'm any closer; where can I get something compatible?

 

[juiced_94gt]

use pag 100 oil and when its a new compressor you should use 8 oz. of oil in the system...you have to evacuate the system and hold a vacume for 15 minutes. your car takes 2.2 pounds of refrigerant.

 

[BlownFiveLiter]

use pag 100 oil and when its a new compressor you should use 8 oz. of oil in the system...you have to evacuate the system and hold a vacume for 15 minutes. your car takes 2.2 pounds of refrigerant.

I did mine for 30 minutes when I replaced my compressor last summer. Just make sure you vacuum the system, or you'll have a system full of air that you're trying to charge. If you don't have access to a vacuum pump, any HVAC shop should be able to do it for a very small fee. They'd probably do it for free if they were evacuating the old R134a out, but either way, it's a simple deal for them.

 

[HighMileageVert]

Sweet, thanks for the advice; I kinda knew about vacuuming, but it's alot more clear now. I just ordered a proper set of gauges and a vacuum pump; hopefully can knock it all out next weekend.

 

[HighMileageVert]

So, I'm not exactly clear on how much r-134a I need to purchase. It comes in the little cans (2 oz? 10oz?)...how much does that work out to in weight?

 

[Methodical]

your car takes 2.2 pounds of refrigerant.

Or 34oz. Just put in 3 12 oz cans and be done with it. I just did mine. AC is freezing cold . Also, I know they say to replace the accumulator blah, blah, blah. I had an accident back in 11/2000 - St. Farm wrote it off - and the car sat for about 4 years before I began the rebuild process. The AC system had been empty all the while. I just replaced the AC condensor because it was smashed up in the accident - no accumulator, compressor blah, blah, blah and everything works like the day I first bought the car. Personally, I would not spend anymore money than needed to just evacuate and charge system.

Note: While charging make sure you have a water hose around because the high side pressure will rise and you don't want it to go above 150-175. Use the water hose to spray the condensor and you will see the pressure drop immediately to about 100-150. When you finish you will be proud of yourself and know that the shops can't screw you anymore.


Good luck
Peace

 

[mo_dingo]

the system take 2.2lbs of r-134a. You should definately evacuate the system to remove any moisture in the lines.
Scott