Aircon barely works, assistance please

[Cooper]

Hi, I got my aircon re-gassed a week or so ago as the cool air was not really cold at all. I just tested it on a couple of long runs and it is still the same!

The compressor kicks in and the air is cooled, or cooler than it would normally be, but is still pathetic. I have tried on recirculate, temperature all the way to left in the blue, and like I said - on long runs just to make sure there is time for it to circulate the gas.

Any ideas on what I can go or should look out for? Thanks.

Coops

 

[hard top]

Did you get the system checked for leaks?
I had that once on a Merc. Turned out a stone or something had hit the rad.

 

[Cooper]

I asked him if there were any leaks and I got a 'no'. hmmm. if the gas gets low the compressor will not operate - is that correct? This is why I was wondering if the gas might be in there still. Come to think of it - maybe the compressor isn't actually working but the clutch engages [I can feel a drop in power]. I don't understand a whole lot about this. Thanks.

 

[badman gee]

You possibly have a slow leak.

Normally cold when gassed but it doesn't last for long

They only way to test for leaks is to inject a dye and then run the car for a while.

You can then check.
As HT says the usual suspect is the condensor radiator I beleive.

It's positioning isn't ideal as its prone to stone damage.

Hope this helps.

 

[Cooper]

Thanks guys, I will take it in tomorrow and get her checked out again. I hope it is easy to get repaired if damaged... or will I need a new one if there is stone damage?

 

[hard top]

Do not want to spoil your day but it cost me E.700.00 for a new rad on the Merc.

 

[t-tony]

The a/c can be tested for leaks by use of a bottle of inert gas to pressurise the system without using the refrigerant . The condenser is very prone to stone damage,but,at least it protects the coolant radiator which can cause far more money's worth of damage if it leaks!

Tony.

 

[oldcarman]

A good rad repair shop can usually fix small leaks fairly cheaply or rebuild yours. If you buy a used condensor be sure to get it pressure tested as T- has mentioned. Compressors seem to be another culprit if the A/C didn't get used a lot. They develop a flat spot which leaks slowly. Even in winter here we're advised to turn on the air a couple of times a month for a short period. HTH JIM

 

[Cooper]

I took the car to the mechanic and it is booked in for Monday. He said they would test and re-gas for free but if any repairs are required I will just have to pay for that. Sounds good to me ad I will let you guys know what happens.

 

[Cooper]

Good news guys! The mechanic dyed and pressurized the system and it was found there was a leak in TX valve area. The seal was replaced and re-gassed and it works like new. There was no extra charge for the work and I am happy.

 

[zedonist]

Result!

 

[t-tony]

Good news guys! The mechanic dyed and pressurized the system and it was found there was a leak in TX valve area. The seal was replaced and re-gassed and it works like new. There was no extra charge for the work and I am happy.

Nice one coops. Pleased for you mate.
Tony.