Re-Charge dash a/c w/kit

Izzyblueye · 09-25-2006, 05:01 AM

Anyone with a Ford chassis 00-01-02-class A. Have you ever re-charged your dash a/c unit? Which is the low and high port? Both ports have identical caps, one is slightly larger than the other. One leads to the evaporator, the other leads to the compressor. May try to do my own re-charge, as no Ford garage will touch a M/H around this area. Any information appreciated.

Izzyblueye · 09-25-2006, 05:01 AM

Anyone with a Ford chassis 00-01-02-class A. Have you ever re-charged your dash a/c unit? Which is the low and high port? Both ports have identical caps, one is slightly larger than the other. One leads to the evaporator, the other leads to the compressor. May try to do my own re-charge, as no Ford garage will touch a M/H around this area. Any information appreciated.

DonavonP · 09-25-2006, 09:55 AM

Hi Homer, I don't own a Ford but THIS web site might help you. It suggests the larger hose as the one to use. You can get a cheap gauge at the auto parts store to give you an idea if your low on freon (R134 probably). Overfilling blows seals.

Protective eyeware is a good idea.

Izzyblueye · 09-25-2006, 03:25 PM

DONAVONP: Thanks for the link. I checked it out and it does give some helpful information. I bought the kit with the gauge, and am about ready to tackle a re-charge. I just need to be very sure I am on the LO side. As I understand the kit directions, their fitting will not fit the HI side. Sure would have been helpful if manf had marked them like my cars and PU truck, they clearly are labeled HI & LO. Thanks again for your help.

TXiceman · 09-25-2006, 04:42 PM

Homer, I have been in the refrigeration and A/C business fro 35 years now and highly recommend that you get professional help if you are not sure of what you are under taking. To many "Shade tree" experts wind up damaging the equipment or injurying themselves.

First thing is are you sure it is low on refrigerant? If so, where is the leak as it needs to be fixed.

As for a place to work on the A/C, the last place I would take it would be a Ford dealer. Any decenet truck/automotive A/C tech should be able to work on it.

John_Canfield · 09-25-2006, 07:45 PM

The high pressure side will be very hot to the touch, the low pressure side should be cooler, and if the AC is working correctly, it will be cold and condensing moisture.

If the suction side is not cold, add the gas until the suction side does get cold and condensing moisture and then turn off the gas after another few seconds.

If you do have a leak, then you will need to add refrigerant every so often and you should get it fixed by a good AC shop.

Izzyblueye · 09-26-2006, 09:39 AM

Thanks for the responses. You are right John finding the leak should be the first concern. However, I have had it checked twice and they claim they can find no leak. It is a very slow leak, and Ford says for no more than I use it, they think it is normal, as seals dry out. I just recharged it and it is working great again. Used an Interdyne kit. Can't get the wrong port, their quick connect will not fit the HI side. Now if it will just stay charged. Thanks again for your input.