Refrigerant Leak Check - Subaru 2002 IMPREZA Service Manual

5. Refrigerant Leak Check

A: INSPECTION
1) Operate the A/C system for approx. 10 minutes,
and confirm that the high-pressure side shows at
least 690 kPa (7.03 kg/cm
engine to start the leak test.
2) Starting from the connection between the high-
pressure tube and evaporator, check the system
for leaks along the high-pressure side through the
compressor. The following items must be checked
thoroughly.
3) Check the joint and seam between the pressure
switch (dual switch) and receiver dryer.
4) Check the connections between the condenser
and tubes, and welded joints on the condenser.
The leak tester may detect the oil on the condenser
fins as a leak.
5) Check the joint between the compressor and
hoses.
6) Check the machined area of compressor and
other joints on the compressor.
7) Check the thermal limiter (if equipped) on the
compressor housing.
8) Check the compressor shaft seal at the area
near the center of compressor clutch pulley.
Some shaft seals show a slight amount of leakage
about 28 g (1.0 oz) per year. This is not a problem.
9) Starting from the connection between the low-
pressure tube and evaporator, check the system
for leakage along the high-pressure side through
the compressor. The following items must be
checked thoroughly.
• Connection between the tube and tube fitting
• Connection between two parts
• Connection between the tube and nut
REFRIGERANT LEAK CHECK
2
, 100 psi). Then stop the
S4M0038
HVAC SYSTEM (HEATER, VENTILATOR AND A/C)
10) Visually check the rubber area of the flexible
hose for cracks.
Check the entire length of the flexible hose, espe-
cially the connection with the metal hose end.
CAUTION:
Carefully check the external surface of hoses
and tubes at approx. 25 mm (0.98 in) per sec-
ond.
11) Disconnect the drain hose from the evaporator
case, and check the hose end for at least 10 sec-
onds.
After the test is finished, reconnect the drain hose.
12) Turn the ignition key to ON position, and run
the blower at high speed for 1 minute. Stop the
blower to check the ventilation grille on the instru-
ment panel. While moving the tester closer to the
grille, run the blower for 1 or 2 seconds, then stop it.
Check the grille at that point for at least 10 seconds.
13) Check the valve in the service port.
14) Visually check the rubber seal in the service
port cap.
AC-25
G4M0617
G4M0618
G4M0619