Home » Public Forums » GMCnet » [GMCnet] Find / fix Dash A/C Leak
| [GMCnet] Find / fix Dash A/C Leak [message #175174] |
Sat, 30 June 2012 21:05  |
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USAussie
Messages: 15912
Registered: July 2007
Location: Sydney, Australia
Karma: 6
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Senior Member |
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G'day,
Its wheels up on Tuesday and I've been checking weather forecasts in the USA and note it's hotter than Hades Upover! The dash air in
Double Trouble developed a leak since I installed the second evaporator so I just ordered a case of Duracool (with discount - thanks
Pete) and I want to order the tools I need to service the system as we travel. John Sharpe and I tried to find the leak when I was
there in February but no luck. Since it is sooo hot in the USA a functioning dash air system is imperative. I do NOT want to run the
front roof air / Onan for the entire tour.
As I understand it the only way you can find a leak in a dash are charged with DuraCool is with a soap solution, the electronic leak
"sniffers" won't pick it up. If I am incorrect PLEASE advise where I can buy a "sniffer" detects "DuraCool.
Repair plan to fix it ONCE:
1) Vent the system to atmosphere
2) Open all the connections and install new O-rings and copper seals on flared fittings added for second evaporator
3) Re-connect all connections and evacuate the system for 30 minutes
4) Charge the system with 134a with this A/C Manifold Gauge Set @ $54.99
http://www.harborfreight.com/a-c-manifold-gauge-set-92649.html
Note: I read the reviews and I've go mixed feelings on buying this set. Maybe I should buy a better set, if you agree
recommendations of a US maker would be appreciated.
5) Leak check the system with this HF leak detector:
http://www.harborfreight.com/electronic-freon-and-halogen-leak-detector-92514.html
Or this leak detector:
http://www.chinabuye.com/electronic-halogen-refrigerant-freon-leak-detector-hvac-field-service-tool-works
I've noted that Duracool sells the adaptors below. If I purchase one of the HF gauge sets for 134a which ones do I need to connect
to DuraCool cans and the A/C fittings in the GMC?
http://www.duracool.com/Duracool/partbrass.html
I've noted that DuraCool sells the following: http://www.duracool.com/Duracool/acsolutions.html
Do you think it would be worth a shot to use any of these in addition to fixing the leak?
Regards,
Rob M.
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Regards,
Rob M. (USAussie)
The Pedantic Mechanic
Sydney, Australia
'75 Avion - AUS - The Blue Streak TZE365V100428
'75 Avion - USA - Double Trouble TZE365V100426
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| Re: [GMCnet] Find / fix Dash A/C Leak [message #175175 is a reply to message #175174] |
Sat, 30 June 2012 21:27  |
Carl S.
Messages: 4186
Registered: January 2009
Location: Tucson, AZ.
Karma: 13
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Senior Member |
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Rob,
I have that HF gauge set. All I can say is, it works. I don't know if it's just my own ignorance or what, but I find the scales on the gauges virtually useless. Maybe if the instructions were a little better, or if I had someone with a little more experience to show me how to use them properly, I would feel more confident using them.
Also, I obtained a Duracool (or brand-X CR-12) dye charge from Bennet Cycle supply, in Nashville. It (and a UV light) helped me find a couple of leaks in the AC system on my Jeep.
Carl Stouffer
'75 ex Palm Beach
Tucson, AZ.
Chuck Aulgur Reaction Arm Disc Brakes, Quadrabags, 3.70 LSD final drive, Lenzi knuckles/hubs, Dodge Truck 16" X 8" front wheels, Rear American Eagles, Solar battery charging. GMCSJ and GMCMI member
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| Re: [GMCnet] Find / fix Dash A/C Leak [message #175183 is a reply to message #175177] |
Sat, 30 June 2012 22:20 |
emerystora
Messages: 4442
Registered: January 2004
Karma: 13
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Senior Member |
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Rib. There are propane leak detectors but I don't know where to buy them.
The easiest thing to do is to pressurize the system with nitrogen or even with compressed air.
Put a hundred psi or more. Then use a soap solution around all connections and spray the front of the condenser.
If you have a leak it should show. However if it inside the evaporator box you'd have to remove the front cover to check it.
When you are done you will have to evacuate the system and refill.
Emery Stora
On Jun 30, 2012, at 8:28 PM, gene Fisher <mr.erfisher@gmail.com> wrote:
> leak check with a uv light
>
> gene
>
>
>
> On Sat, Jun 30, 2012 at 7:09 PM, Robert Mueller <robmueller@iinet.net.au>wrote:
>
>> G'day,
>>
>> Its wheels up on Tuesday and I've been checking weather forecasts in the
>> USA and note it's hotter than Hades Upover! The dash air in
>> Double Trouble developed a leak since I installed the second evaporator so
>> I just ordered a case of Duracool (with discount - thanks
>> Pete) and I want to order the tools I need to service the system as we
>> travel. John Sharpe and I tried to find the leak when I was
>> there in February but no luck. Since it is sooo hot in the USA a
>> functioning dash air system is imperative. I do NOT want to run the
>> front roof air / Onan for the entire tour.
>>
>> As I understand it the only way you can find a leak in a dash are charged
>> with DuraCool is with a soap solution, the electronic leak
>> "sniffers" won't pick it up. If I am incorrect PLEASE advise where I can
>> buy a "sniffer" detects "DuraCool.
>>
>> Repair plan to fix it ONCE:
>>
>> 1) Vent the system to atmosphere
>>
>> 2) Open all the connections and install new O-rings and copper seals on
>> flared fittings added for second evaporator
>>
>> 3) Re-connect all connections and evacuate the system for 30 minutes
>>
>> 4) Charge the system with 134a with this A/C Manifold Gauge Set @ $54.99
>>
>> http://www.harborfreight.com/a-c-manifold-gauge-set-92649.html
>>
>> Note: I read the reviews and I've go mixed feelings on buying this set.
>> Maybe I should buy a better set, if you agree
>> recommendations of a US maker would be appreciated.
>>
>> 5) Leak check the system with this HF leak detector:
>>
>>
>> http://www.harborfreight.com/electronic-freon-and-halogen-leak-detector-92514.html
>>
>> Or this leak detector:
>>
>>
>> http://www.chinabuye.com/electronic-halogen-refrigerant-freon-leak-detector-hvac-field-service-tool-works
>>
>> I've noted that Duracool sells the adaptors below. If I purchase one of
>> the HF gauge sets for 134a which ones do I need to connect
>> to DuraCool cans and the A/C fittings in the GMC?
>>
>> http://www.duracool.com/Duracool/partbrass.html
>>
>> I've noted that DuraCool sells the following:
>> http://www.duracool.com/Duracool/acsolutions.html
>>
>> Do you think it would be worth a shot to use any of these in addition to
>> fixing the leak?
>>
>> Regards,
>> Rob M.
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> GMCnet mailing list
>> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
>> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
>>
>
>
>
> --
> Gene Fisher -- 74-23,77PB/ore/ca
> “Give a man a fish; you have fed him for today --- give him a URL and
> -------
> http://gmcmotorhome.info/
> Alternator Protection Cable
> http://gmcmotorhome.info/APC.html
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
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| Re: [GMCnet] Find / fix Dash A/C Leak [message #175184 is a reply to message #175182] |
Sat, 30 June 2012 22:23 |
k2gkk
Messages: 4452
Registered: November 2009
Karma: -8
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Senior Member |
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Me, too!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
~~ ~ D C "Mac" Macdonald ~ ~~
~ ~ Amateur Radio - K2GKK ~ ~
~ ~ USAF and FAA, Retired ~ ~
~ ~ ~ Oklahoma City, OK ~ ~ ~
~~ ~ ~ "The Money Pit" ~ ~ ~~
~ ~ ~ '76 ex-Palm Beach ~ ~ ~
~ www.gmcmhphotos.com/okclb ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
______________
*[ ]~~~[][ ][|\
*--OO--[]---O-*
> From: robmueller@iinet.net.au
> To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org
> Date: Sun, 1 Jul 2012 13:15:41 +1000
> Subject: Re: [GMCnet] Find / fix Dash A/C Leak
>
> Ken,
>
> Thanks, bought it!
>
> Regards,
> Rob M.
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: gmclist-bounces@temp.gmcnet.org [mailto:gmclist-bounces@temp.gmcnet.org] On Behalf Of Ken Burton
> Sent: Sunday, 1 July 2012 12:38 PM
> To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org
> Subject: Re: [GMCnet] Find / fix Dash A/C Leak
>
>
>
> I find it easier to find a leak with dye and a UV flashlight.
>
> Here is one of many on ebay.
>
< http://www.ebay.com/itm/New-21-LED-UV-Ultra-Violet-Aluminum-Alloy-Flashlight-Blacklight-Torch-3x-AAA-/200771873369?pt=US_Flashlights&hash=item2ebe efaa59>
>
>
> --
> Ken Burton - N9KB
> 76 Palm Beach
> Hebron, Indiana
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
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>
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| Re: [GMCnet] Find / fix Dash A/C Leak [message #175185 is a reply to message #175174] |
Sat, 30 June 2012 22:47 |
JohnL455
Messages: 4447
Registered: October 2006
Location: Woodstock, IL
Karma: 12
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Senior Member |
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Rob I have Robinair R12/22 set and it cost about 4 times that. I trust the gauges and have no reason to believe they are hoakie.
Same on the sniffer, mine was like $150. China in the name scares me. For soap I like the kids bottle of bubbles and water.
John Lebetski
Woodstock, IL
77 Eleganza II
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| Re: [GMCnet] Find / fix Dash A/C Leak [message #175190 is a reply to message #175182] |
Sat, 30 June 2012 23:43 |
Ken Burton
Messages: 10030
Registered: January 2004
Location: Hebron, Indiana
Karma: 10
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Senior Member |
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WHOA, whoa, Wait a minute guys. I did not recommend that one. I just gave an example. I expected you would look through the UV lights and find one you liked.
Ken B.
Ken Burton - N9KB
76 Palm Beach
Hebron, Indiana
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| Re: [GMCnet] Find / fix Dash A/C Leak [message #175218 is a reply to message #175209] |
Sun, 01 July 2012 11:31 |
Ken Henderson
Messages: 8726
Registered: March 2004
Location: Americus, GA
Karma: 9
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Senior Member |
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I thought Bennett Cycle Supply had HC12a with dye, but looking at their
site, it seems they now have only oil with dye -- I'd hate to have to drain
& replace oil if I needed to find a leak. Guess I'll continue to use
compressed air & bubble soap -- fortunately, I haven't had any leakage
since I installed the new AC a couple of years ago.
Ken H.
On Sun, Jul 1, 2012 at 10:49 AM, Robert Mueller wrote:
> ...
I checked Worthington's on line catalog but couldn't find the dye, I'll
> send them an email and ask them if they have it.
>
>
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Ken Henderson
Americus, GA
www.gmcwipersetc.com
Large Wiring Diagrams
76 X-Birchaven
76 X-Palm Beach
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| Re: [GMCnet] Find / fix Dash A/C Leak [message #175222 is a reply to message #175218] |
Sun, 01 July 2012 12:35 |
Ken Burton
Messages: 10030
Registered: January 2004
Location: Hebron, Indiana
Karma: 10
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Senior Member |
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| Ken Henderson wrote on Sun, 01 July 2012 11:31 |
I thought Bennett Cycle Supply had HC12a with dye, but looking at their
site, it seems they now have only oil with dye -- I'd hate to have to drain
& replace oil if I needed to find a leak. Guess I'll continue to use
compressed air & bubble soap -- fortunately, I haven't had any leakage
since I installed the new AC a couple of years ago.
Ken H.
On Sun, Jul 1, 2012 at 10:49 AM, Robert Mueller wrote:
> ...
I checked Worthington's on line catalog but couldn't find the dye, I'll
> send them an email and ask them if they have it.
|
Here is the dye (without oil):
http://www.ebay.com/itm/FINT-IT-LDS-A-C-DYE-PART-LKD-2-/251049385145?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item3a73b59cb9&vxp=mtr
http://www.ebay.com/itm/TRACER-STICK-TP-3850-AC-MINERAL-OIL-AND-ENGINE-TRANS-DYE-/270939573354?pt=Motors_Automotive_Tools&hash=item3f1541cc6a& vxp=mtr
Here is the injector for R-12 fittings.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Compressor-Oil-UV-Fluorescent-Dye-Injector-Syringe-Charger-Leak-Check-HVAC-Tool-/390434690979?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=i tem5ae7b897a3
Here is the R-134 adapter to go on the injector (if needed):
http://www.ebay.com/itm/R134a-1-4-SAE-QUICK-COUPLER-ADJUST-90-DEGREE-LOW-SIDE-/330506954076?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4cf3bfe55c
Ken Burton - N9KB
76 Palm Beach
Hebron, Indiana
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| Re: [GMCnet] Find / fix Dash A/C Leak [message #175226 is a reply to message #175174] |
Sun, 01 July 2012 13:22 |
roy1
Messages: 2126
Registered: July 2004
Location: Minden nevada
Karma: 6
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Senior Member |
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Haven't used a propane leak detector in a long time as mine wasn't very sensitive. Never cared too much for dye in the oil. Never tried the ultra violet detector but may be a good way to locate the leak. Another thought would be to add a little 134 or R12 to the system (it wouldn't matter if the duracool is still in it) and leak check it with an electronic leak detector. If you can't find it do like Emery suggested and increase the pressure to 100-150 lbs with nitrogen . The small amount of 134 or 12 will set of the detector when you find it.
Roy Keen
Minden,NV
76 X Glenbrook
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| Re: [GMCnet] Find / fix Dash A/C Leak [message #175293 is a reply to message #175174] |
Mon, 02 July 2012 10:59 |
jhbridges
Messages: 8412
Registered: May 2011
Location: Braselton ga
Karma: -74
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Senior Member |
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I'd evacuate it overnight, if you have time and a vacuum pump. This will boil out any moisture which may have found its way into the system including the receiver/dryer.
--johnny
'76 23' transmode norris
'76 palm beach
From: Robert Mueller <robmueller@iinet.net.au>
To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org
Sent: Saturday, June 30, 2012 10:09 PM
Subject: [GMCnet] Find / fix Dash A/C Leak
G'day,
Its wheels up on Tuesday and I've been checking weather forecasts in the USA and note it's hotter than Hades Upover! The dash air in
Double Trouble developed a leak since I installed the second evaporator so I just ordered a case of Duracool (with discount - thanks
Pete) and I want to order the tools I need to service the system as we travel. John Sharpe and I tried to find the leak when I was
there in February but no luck. Since it is sooo hot in the USA a functioning dash air system is imperative. I do NOT want to run the
front roof air / Onan for the entire tour.
As I understand it the only way you can find a leak in a dash are charged with DuraCool is with a soap solution, the electronic leak
"sniffers" won't pick it up. If I am incorrect PLEASE advise where I can buy a "sniffer" detects "DuraCool.
Repair plan to fix it ONCE:
1) Vent the system to atmosphere
2) Open all the connections and install new O-rings and copper seals on flared fittings added for second evaporator
3) Re-connect all connections and evacuate the system for 30 minutes
4) Charge the system with 134a with this A/C Manifold Gauge Set @ $54.99
http://www.harborfreight.com/a-c-manifold-gauge-set-92649.html
Note: I read the reviews and I've go mixed feelings on buying this set. Maybe I should buy a better set, if you agree
recommendations of a US maker would be appreciated.
5) Leak check the system with this HF leak detector:
http://www.harborfreight.com/electronic-freon-and-halogen-leak-detector-92514.html
Or this leak detector:
http://www.chinabuye.com/electronic-halogen-refrigerant-freon-leak-detector-hvac-field-service-tool-works
I've noted that Duracool sells the adaptors below. If I purchase one of the HF gauge sets for 134a which ones do I need to connect
to DuraCool cans and the A/C fittings in the GMC?
http://www.duracool.com/Duracool/partbrass.html
I've noted that DuraCool sells the following: http://www.duracool.com/Duracool/acsolutions.html
Do you think it would be worth a shot to use any of these in addition to fixing the leak?
Regards,
Rob M.
_______________________________________________
GMCnet mailing list
Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
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Foolish Carriage, 76 26' Eleganza(?) with beaucoup mods and add - ons.
Braselton, Ga.
I forgive them all, save those who hurt the dogs. They must answer to me in hell
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