Re: [DML] Question on A/C system

["Lynn Metz" <metzlynn@xxxx>]

Steve:
First, by checking the archives you find extensive discussion on comparing 
the "new" freon to R12. Generally - new stuff is cheap, but a little less 
effective. R12 very expensive, but works better.

The worst problem you will encounter in an A/c system which has sat dry is 
that the dryer/accumulator will have to be replaced. This does not "go bad" 
and leak, but it contains a substance that removes moisture from the system. 
Once the system sits dry for a while (because of a leak), the dryer become 
"saturated", meaning that it can absorb no more moisture. At this point, 
when you run the A/C, this moisture will quickly freeze and the A/C will 
stop working. It will seem like the system is low on freon because it is 
not cooling, however, it is frozen up. I have seen this many times. (other 
cars - not DeLoreans) Mechanics will keep trying to add to a system which is 
already full.

The only ways I ever check a system are with a "sniffer" (elctronic 
hand-held device that detects freon) or by using the dye you referenced.

Hope this helps
Brian 16584

> From: "Steve Rubano" <srubano@xxxx>

> Hi all, I was wondering if someone out there with A/C system
> knowledge can give me some advice. The A/C system on my car has
> been "dry" for some time now (don't know how long) where as all the
> freon was out. I am assuming there is a leak somewhere. There was no
> hint of pressure at all when I was taking it apart. Here are my
> questions:
>
> 1. What should I suspect/check on my system that would go bad from it
> being dry for some time now?
>
> 2. Is the new "legal" freon as cold as the old stuff? I have only
> dealt with the older stuff so I can't compare the two.
>
> 3. Can I check for leaks in the system without charging it with
> freon? I know that there are special UV Dyes out there you can inject
> into the system and use a black light to track the leak. Can I use
> this without charging the system or do I have to charge it so I can
> run the A/C to find the leak?


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