Finding R12 leaks
What's best way to find source of the R12 leak in my '67 factory ac? Understand AC people use something called a "sniffer". Don't want to use dye method as I understand it can clog system.
Thanks
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Re: Finding R12 leaks
Tighten all the connections first but not too tight let the O-rings do their job. If all the R12 has leaked out why not replace all the O-rings and the hoses. The new green O-rings soaked in R12 oil work very well.
If you have a hole in one of the components that's a much larger problem.
Good Luck
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Re: Finding R12 leaks
Bill:
1. Use a SNOOP or similar leak checking solution for AC systems. You can also make your own from dishwashing soap, but it is generally a bit too runny compared to some of the AC leak test solutions. This method can test most fittings and hoses, etc.....but cannot test for an evaporator leak or a compressor seal leak. You simply look for "bubbles" from leaking refrigerant. System must be pressurized 50-100 psig to use (typical pressures).
2. Buy or borrow a Inficon TEK-MATE or comparable electronic leak detector. Just Google the name. I like the TEK-MATE as it is relatively cheap ($150) and has a proven track record over many many years of commercial use. It is the model that I personally have. But there are many ones out there. Your home or auto AC tech will have one............perhaps you could borrow or rent from them, or have them do the checks.
I personally believe everyone who does auto AC work should have one of these tools, but not everyone agrees with me initially. However, almost everyone agrees with me later.
LarryComment
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Re: Finding R12 leaks
Where can I purchase the new green o rings and hoses, if needed, for these C2 Corvette AC's?Comment
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Re: Finding R12 leaks
You can find the O-Rings on ebay. The hoses can be found at Paragon, LIC etc. They will be black with no logos. If the old ones are installed correctly the only way to get them off is to cut them off, The shop manual provides instructions.
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Re: Finding R12 leaks
What's special about o rings on EBay? Aren't they available from Old Air, etc. if they are current state of art? What all will I have to replace if I open the system to replace hoses and o rings- just the dryer?? Know it's somewhere in archives but what oil that will work with R12 do I ask for when I go my parts store-NAPA, etc.
ThanksComment
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Re: Finding R12 leaks
I was just pointing out ebay as a source, you can get them anywhere. There is R12 oil and R134 oil just ask for the R12 oil. No need to replace the dryer. Just complete the change of the O-rings and hoses as quickly as possible then start the vacuum leak test. This will extract moisture.
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Re: Finding R12 leaks
If I replaced all the o-rings and hoses I would most certainly replace the receiver/drier. That is standard industry practice, and a good one. But maybe that is just me.......Bill is free to do as he wishes.
The R12 mineral oil is 500-525 SUS Wax-free Mineral Refrigerant Oil for AC systems. NAPA Part # TEM 209500.............although other brands and suppliers are available if you look. SUS is Saybolt Universal Seconds and is a measure of the oil viscosity.
FWIW.
LarryComment
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Re: Finding R12 leaks
For myself I use a product called "Big Blue" when using soap bubbles are appropriate, works great. When I am in a jam, plain old Windex works quite well. As for other leak detection methods, I prefer a halide torch. In my humble opinion it is the best leak detector, for chlorinated refrigerants anyway. Good luck!!Comment
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Re: Finding R12 leaks
I recently this summer bought a quart of AC Delco 525 mineral oil from my local AC Delco parts store for my 1985 Corvette R12 air conditioning system. It was delivered the next day and no extra charge.Comment
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