Leaks; System Pressure Fault Classification - Aston Martin V8 Vantage Workshop Manual

Leaks

Faults associated with low refrigerant charge weight and low pressure may be caused by leakage. Leaks traced to
mechanical connections may be caused by torque relaxation or joint face contamination. Evidence of oil around such
areas is an indicator of leakage.
Leak Detection
Fluorescent Tracer Dye - A fluorescent tracer dye is incorporated into the refrigeration system and can be checked for
non-apparent leaks by scanning with a high intensity ultraviolet lamp. The location of leaks can be pinpointed by the bright
yellow glow of the tracer dye.
Observe ALL safety precautions associated with ultraviolet equipment.
Automatic Refrigerant Leak Detector - (various manufacturers) Hand-held, portable, battery operated leak detector.
Place in and around A/C system to detect refrigerant leaks.

System Pressure Fault Classification

If erratic or unusual gauge movements occur, check the equipment against known Recovery / Recycling / Recharging unit
This table should be used in conjunction with the graphical representations of 'High side' pressure / ambient temperature
and 'Low side' pressure / evaporator temperature.
Low side High side
gauge reading gauge reading Fault
Normal Normal
Normal to low Normal
Low Low
Low Low
Low Low
Low Low
High Low
High High
High High
October 2005
Caution
gauges.
Discharge air initially cool then warms up Moisture in system
As above
Discharge air slightly cool
Discharge air warm
Discharge air slightly cool or frost build
up at expansion valve
Discharge air slightly cool, sweating or
frost after point of restriction
Compressor noisy
Discharge air warm and high side pipes
hot
Discharge air warm
Sweating or frost at evaporator
Workshop Manual
Air Conditioning (A/C) System (12.03)
Climate Control (12.00)
Cause
As above
Refrigerant charge low
Refrigerant charge very low
Expansion valve stuck closed
Restriction in High side of system
Defective compressor reed valve
Refrigerant charge high or inefficient
condenser cooling due to air flow blockage or
engine cooling fans not working
Expansion valve stuck open
12-3-11