Chrysler Conquest 1988 Service Manual page 955

AIR CONDITIONING
- Service Adiustment Procedures
24-79
2011652
Leak detector torch
Compressor
Refrigerant
leak tester
Electric leak tester
(\
2OUO338
-I
TESTING THE SYSTEM FOR LEAKS
N24FFAA
A leak is likely to occur where two components are connected
together. See the illustration for possible locations.
The Leak Detector Torch is a butane gas-burning torch used to
locate a leak in any part of the refrigeration system. Refrigerant
gas drawn into the sampling or "sniffer" hose will cause the
flame to change color in proportion to the size of the leak. A
very small leak will produce a flame varying from yellowish-
green to bright green. A large leak wjll produce a brilliant blue
flame.
Caution
Do not use the lighted detector in any place where
explosive gases, dust or vapors are present. Do not
breathe the fumes that are produced by the burning of
refrigerant gas. Large concentrations of refrigerant in the
presence of a live flame become dangerously toxic.
If the flame remains bright yellow when the tester is removed
from a possible leak point, insufficient air is being drawn in
through the sampling tube, or the copper reaction wire is dirty.
(1) Assemble leak detector as shown. Be sure detector is
seated tightly over torch gasket.
(2) Holding torch upright, screw-in butane charger (clockwise)
until punctured. (Do not use force.)
(3) Screw-out butane charger (counterclockwise) about l/4
turn.
(4) Point torch away from body - then light escaping gas with
match. Always keep torch in upright position.
(5) Adjust flame by turning cartridge in or out as required.
(6) Allow 30 seconds to heat copper reaction wire.
Caution
Never remove butane charger while torch is lighted or
in the presence of any open flame.
(7) Examine all tube connectors and other possible leak points
by moving the end of the sampling hose from point to point.
Always keep torch in upright position. Since R-12 is heavier
than air, it is good practice to place the open end of
sampling hose directly below point being tested. Be careful
not to pinch sampling tube since this will shut off air supply
to flame and cause a color change.
(8) Watch for a change in the color of the flame.
Small leaks will produce a green color and large leaks a
bright blue- color. If leaks are observed at tube fittings,
tighten the connection, using the proper flare wrenches,
and retest.
NOTE i
An electric leak tester which sounds to alarm also be used.