Date:         Tue, 6 Jun 2006 18:04:36 -0400
Reply-To:     shawn feller <feller@CARBONCOW.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         shawn feller <feller@CARBONCOW.COM>
Subject:      lots of a/c trouble shotting questions...
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Got my 86 Westy with an inoperable a/c
system, PO said it hadn't worked in
decades!

Upon inspection I found a "hot wire" off
the compressor and it fired right up! A
bit noisy but it was engaging and
running when I turned on the switch. So
we put a new filter/dryer on it, pumped
it down and installed my favorite R12
substitute (which will remain nameless
for this discussion!).

Here are a couple of questions:

No site window on this system so I can
check for bubbles when filling, correct?
One connector for checking pressures and
filling with refrigerant?

We filled it up and what I'm assuming is
the low side pressure went sky high, the
pipe off the compressor barely cooled
and no cooling effect inside.

Obviously I got acceptable pressure in
the system (not saying the right amount)
as the compressor is engaging and there
is both a high and low pressure switch
on this system, correct?

What next? I have seen noticeable leaks
on hoses, its holding pressure. I'll
check dye leaks latter, I'm more
interested in getting cooling effect
first!

Clogged expansion valve?
Crapped compressor (it is noisy!)?

I've done most of my own A/C on older
vehicles with great luck. I don't change
o-rings unless I see a leak and I've
never heard of a condenser or
evaporating clogging?


Shawn