AC recharge questions (1 Viewer)

[chief88]

99 LC 120K. Very hot already here in S Texas and have searched - but surprised that there isn't much on recharging the AC. It works now, and is cold - but I think it could/should be colder. I've looked in the sight glass and can see periodic bubbles with both the main and rear AC's on. 1st question is should I see any bubbles at all - thought I read a post that read I one should see "appropriate level of bubbles". 2nd question is if I shouldn't see bubbles (and I do) then I need to add some refrigerant right?

Thinking of doing it myself - any recommendations or sage advice on what to / not to do?

3rd question - just to make sure.......134a right? for a 99

 

[e9999]

plenty of threads on this in the 80 section and I'm sure others.

Short answer: very easy to check and recharge yourself

yes, a 99 should be 134

 

[inkpot]

Howdy! Hard to say how many bubbles is OK. You COULD add one can of (yes 134a) freon with one of the "do it yourself" kits, and see if that helps. The gauge on those kits is NOT very accurate, so I would NOT add more than 1 can. OR, just have it serviced at a local AC shop. Around Phoenix, it runs under $100 to have the AC checked out and topped off. Then you can look at the bubbles and see what it is supposed to look like. John

 

[e9999]

well, one can may be too much if the system is still working OK. You need to check the pressure with a gauge while you add the refrigerant. Not a good idea to overcharge.

 

[socalsuv]

Just recharged mine this past weekend. Prior to recharging I saw many small bubbles flying by with the A/C on. Post charging I really couldn't see any bubbles at all. It was a major difference and very noticeable.

 

[100 TD]

Top up a bit at a time, you may only need a small part of a can.

The best thing to do is to get the leak detected and fixed.

That way you don't risk contaminating your A/C system and risk early component failure. Overcharging can also cause premature compressor/condenser failure.