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CUSTOM AIR CONDITIONING
1B-17
DIAGNOSIS
LEAK TESTING THE SYSTEM
Whenever a refrigerant leak is suspected in the system
or a service operation performed which results in disturbing
lines or connections, it is advisable to test for leaks. Common
sense should be the governing factor in performing any
refrigerant leak test, since the need and extent of any such
test will, in general, depend upon the nature of the complaint
and the type of service performed on the system.
LIQUID LEAK DETECTORS
There are a number of fittings and places throughout the
air conditioning unit where a liquid leak detector solution
may be used to pinpoint refrigerant leaks.
By merely applying solution to the area with the swab
that is attached to the bottle cap, bubbles will form within
seconds if there is a leak.
For confined areas, such as sections of the evaporator
and condenser, the electronic leak detector is more practical
for determining leaks.
ELECTRONIC LEAK DETECTOR
-
J
23400
The electronic refrigerant leak detector, J 23400 (Fig.
1B-18), is portable, powered by batteries and has only one
control knob to adjust. The J 23400 is operated as follows:
1. Turn trigger knob ON and note piercing "squeal"
generated by tester.
2. Continue to turn trigger knob in same direction until
squeal stops.
At this point, the tester is ready for use. To check
operation, remove cap from reference leak, remove sensor
probe from brackets and hold electrode cage near the
reference leak. The reference leak (1/2 oz. per year) will cause
a tone to be generated from the tester. Replace reference leak
cap and begin testing for leaks in refrigerant system.
Testing
If a malfunction in the refrigerant system is suspected
due to abnormal system pressures, check the following:
1. Restrictions in evaporator or condenser core, hoses,
tubes, etc.
2.' Refrigerant leaks.
3. Compressor clutch slippage.
4. Improper drive belt tension.
5. Excessive moisture in refrigerant system.
6. Plugged accumulator, expansion tube (orifice) or
compressor suction inlet screen.
Preliminary Checks
ELECTRODE
SAGE
- . I
Fig. 1
B-18
J
23400 Electronic Leak Detector
4. Check outer surfaces of radiator and condenser cores
to be sure they are not plugged with dirt, leaves or other
foreign material. Be sure to check between the condenser and
radiator as well as the outer surfaces.
5. Start properly operating, tuned engine and set up A/C
system according to appropriate Performance Conditions
stated in A/C System Diagnostic Procedure.
1. Check compressor belt for proper tension.
2. Check all refrigeration lines for leaks, kinks, or other
restrictions.
3. Check all air ducts for leaks or restrictions. Air
restriction may indicate a plugged (or partially plugged)
evaporator core.
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