1998 Chevy S-10 Need to understand.

MONTA_SD

MEMBER
1998 CHEVROLET S-10
6 CYL
FWD
MANUAL
10,000 MILES

I had a certified A/C tech test and recharge the air conditioner. The testing revealed no defects. I enjoyed cold air but, it only lasted three days. When I returned to shop, I was told that there were probably micro leaks that the testing system could not pick up. It was recommended that I have all A/C hoses replaced, then come back and they would recharge the system again, at no charge. They also recharged the system again and, again, it only lasted three days.

If you are familiar with this vehicle, you know what it is to drive it during hot weather without A/C. Ack!

Having very limited resources, I tried recharging the system myself with a product that said there was sealant in it. Following the instuctions on the label, I charged up to 55 lbs pressure( I think the pressure is measured in lbs or is it ml?). The results were absolutely nothing. No cold air what so ever.

I don't understand. I know the A/C can hold refridgerant, if only for a few days. So why, when I try, I get absolutely nothing?

Monta

3 Replies

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,916 POSTS

Hi monta_sd. Welcome to the forum. Was the compressor running when you were charging the system? You might have to jumper the low pressure cutout switch to get it to start running. If it isn't running, it won't draw in vapor from the can.

Did the cans completely empty? If not, or if it takes more than a minute, set it upright in a pot of hot water. How many cans did you put in? Most vehicles take at least two.

Caradiodoc

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Friday, August 27th, 2010 AT 3:19 PM

MONTA_SD

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Was the compressor running. Hmmm. I can tell you I followed exactly the instructions on the can : Shake can well. Start engine and set A/C on MAX COOL. Vehicle doors were wide open, A/c set at coldest and blower at highest. Refrigerant added to low side service valve with recharge hose, until maximum pressure reached. No cold air what so ever.

Does the compressor sound like: whir, click, whir click? I notice that sound when I'm driving. I can't swear I heard it while adding coolant.

I started with a 12oz can of refrigerant. It was not emptied.

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Monday, September 27th, 2010 AT 11:21 PM

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,916 POSTS

When you hear the "whir, click", you should see the compressor clutch spinning and stopping. Rapid cycling like that is typical of a system that's low on charge. It's common too for the cans to not empty on their own unless you put them in hot water. Shaking isn't necessary. The instructions probably tell you to do that to aid in the vaporization of the refrigerant.

Caradiodoc

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Tuesday, September 28th, 2010 AT 2:37 AM