real time: connecting manifold gauge set to AC

[Ducks]

According to the FSM I'm supposed to connect the low pressure hose to the suction service valve and the high pressure hose to the discharge service valve. I'm not sure which valve is which. Anyone have some helpful hints?

Thanks.

 

[fliphkd778]

The high side is the one that runs to the condenser, so if I remember correctly, the one closest to the driver should be the low side

 

[Ducks]

Thanks. I think that is what I figured out as well. The one on the right side of the picture that comes directly from the evaporator is the suction service valve for the low side.

 

[grant5127]

The suction or low side is always larger in diameter than the high pressure side on all A/C systems..........

 

[Ducks]

The suction or low side is always larger in diameter than the high pressure side on all A/C systems..........

I first thought you were talking about the valves, which are the same size. But it makes perfect sense that the low side would have larger hoses and the high side would have smaller tubes.

I bought a R134 manifold gauge set but the connectors didn't fit on the valves so I returned it. I took it to the dealer because I couldn't find a R12 manifold gauge set, which I assume would fit but don't know for sure. I needed it done quickly so I can remove my heater core and get some heat. The first time I called they quoted me an hour's worth of labor for $110. But when I called the second time and went in they only charged me $50. My conscious is more clear since the FSM procedure was to just vent the R12 to the atmosphere.

They also tested the system to see if it would hold vacuum, which it did splendidly.