| Before
you start to rely on your A/C service tools and equipment, it's a real good
idea to check and test them now, before the season starts. We've compiled
a complete check list for your review. Here's some details that you will
want to go over:
Manifold
Pressure Gauges:
Yes,
gauge sets should be checked regularly, not just at the beginning of the
season. They typically go out of calibration and they can even leak.
When the low pressure gauge is out of calibration it makes it really
difficult to get any sort of accurate vacuum reading. Keep in mind that they
have probably been bumped around a few times and who knows how many hot exhaust
manifolds and radiator fans the hoses have been caught in. So it just makes
sense to check and calibrate your
manifold gauges. You can also leak test them using your vacuum pump (just
block the high and low couplers and pull vacuum on the yellow center hose)
After that, you add an ounce of refrigerant to pressure test them. Use a
leak detector or bubble check fluid on all the connections.
If
you own a charging station, you should be able to do the same sort of inspections
and tests. However, review your Owner's Manual on that equipment for complete
details.
Vacuum
Pump:
Probably
the most overlooked piece of equipment on the floor of every auto A/C service
shop. These pumps require regular oil changes; at least every 15 to
20 hours of operation. As your vacuum pump has probably sat for most of
the winter, it's a good idea to get that oil changed now.
You should seriously consider a complete service
including Vacuum
Pump Cleaner, Oil and Anti-Friction Additive. If you're in doubt
about your vacuum pump's operation, you should review the information we
released that shows you
Everything Vacuum
Pump Manufacturers Didn't Want You to Know.
Recovery
Station:
Your
recovery station has filters that require regular service. You should be
taking the time now to check (and replace) these filters as required.
You may also find that it's a good idea to have a spare on hand. Every
recovery station will be different, so you have to refer to the manufacturer's
information for those details.
Couplers
and Adapters:
Quick
couplers can leak over time. You may also find that you require some of those
hard to find adapters and fittings that you need to service particular vehicles.
Check your A/C couplers, fittings
and adapters to be sure you've got what you need.
Small
tools and hand tools:
There
always seems to be something missing when the heat is on. Remember that you
will need your A/C disconnect
tools, thermometers, oil and dye injectors, orifice tube removers and
valve core removers.
Small
Parts Supply:
Don't
get caught without the right o-ring, gasket or washer. With the variety of
applications on the road, 4 o-rings sizes will just not give you the coverage
you need. Be sure your o-ring
kits are full and ready for the season.
Other
Consumable Products:
Remember
all of those other items that you reach for every day like
A/C Compressor oil,
UV Dye and
Leak Detection Fluids? Be
sure that you have a supply so that you can complete those service jobs when
they arrive. (You may want to view this video help on how a
UV enhanced external leak
detection fluid works! These fluid provide another good reliable method
for auto A/C leak detection).
Batteries:
Depending
on your leak detector and other tools you use, you know batteries never hold
up through the winter. Double check your supply and be sure you have a supply
of fresh batteries on hand.
Don't
forget... you will really need
Your
Auto A/C Connection! :
This
is an absolute must! The Auto A/C Connection! is a complete
and perpetual auto A/C Service
and Parts Source Guide. If you service auto A/C, then you have to have
this. It includes constantly updated information that you use every day!
Complete detail like refrigerant capacities, A/C compressor oil details,
clutch air gap details and more! You just won't believe what's included...
and best of all, it's free!
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