Any tips on finding an A/C leak?

[PeteB]

I got my A/C charged and had nice cold air for a few days, now it's not working again. :furious: Must have a leak somewhere, but I have no idea on how to go about finding it.

 

[Rick S.]

I think i remember that a black light will see the leak.

 

[Julian]

UV/Black light is combined with a dye that you inject into the A/C system.

I find it's simpler to use a sniffer around all the fittings, 9 times out of 10 it's a fitting that is leaking, but this method can be hampered by fans blowing air around, easier on a mid engine. If you don't want to purchase one, call around the local auto parts stores and see if they have a loaner or an UV kit, Autozone often do.

Julian

 

[Dave Bilyk]

Pete, agreed that a fitting is more likely and hope it turns out that way, but in my case it turned out to be the shaft seal on the a/c pump, there was a little corrosion on the shaft. The system had been changed to the latest refrigerant too, which was more 'leaky'.
Dave

 

[John]

Also check to make sure the compressor is engaging when the a/c is turned on.

 

[PeteB]

Also check to make sure the compressor is engaging when the a/c is turned on.

Well, it's not now because the pressure is too low in the system.

I watched a bunch of youtube videos last night on how to find leaks. So, I'm off to the auto parts store today for some UV dye, more R134, and a UV flashlight. Harbor Freight has an electronic sniffer on sale, so I think I'll pick one of those up too.

 

[PeteB]

Found the leak, the UV dye worked great. Turned out to be a hose to fitting connection I apparently didn't have crimped well enough. Re-crimped and seems to be fixed.