Car AC

[Structo]

We have any auto mechanics here?

I have a 1994 Honda Accord.

Last Spring I noticed the AC wasn't working very good so I bought a can of 134A that has the oil and sealers in it and filled the system back up.

It seemed to work for a couple weeks but a few weeks ago I noticed there was no cool air coming from the vents.

I know the compressor clutch is working and the compressor spins.

Just seems like all the Freon has leaked out.

Is there an easy way to find leaks?
Like spray soapy water on the fittings to see if anything is leaking?

I know I'll probably have to re-charge it to have some pressure.

I just have never worked much on AC other than replacing a compressor once.

Any help is appreciated.
Tom

[Randy Magee]

They make a freon with dye in it to help locate leaks... maybe you can find someone with a freon "sniffer"... more than likely it's an o-ring gone south...

[mlp-mx6]

This is often due to the felt seal on the end of the shaft drying out. If the compressor goes several months without being used then the oil in the system is not circulated, and the felt dries out. This lets the freon leak out. It is very difficult to get the felt to re-soften. Often the compressor must be rebuilt or replaced to get reliable cooling again.

[dartanion]

There are plenty of articles on this if you google it. The best way to find out if you have leaks is a pressure test. Then look for leaks, and replace hoses or other components that are leaky. You may also have moisture in your system, which will need to be removed before recharging.

[Cantplay]

You need a UV light to find the leaks, the dye will flouresce.

There is a sight glass near the condenser. You should see the refrigerant stream by with a few bubbles if its full. Foam, or nothing at all = empty.

134A is much smaller than freon 12 and leaks more easily.

John

[ToneMerc]

The best way to find out if you have leaks is a pressure test.

This is exactly what I would do next, have the system pressure checked.

TM