I almost never use my AC, almost. It was over 100 today and I had to buy groceries, so i ran it on the way home. It was not what I'd consider cold at all. Got home still sweating and checked the compressor, it's cycling ever 4 seconds. I used my infrared laser thermometer to check the temp inside the ac vent and it was only 82 degrees, temp outside was 92(about 4 hours later). I looked around for any sign of a leak, no black light though, and I'm pretty sure it's leaking at a quick disconnect fitting. Same type of connectors as the fuel line. there is an oily residue all around the fitting with the black plastic clip around it.



Now my question is, do these fittings have an o-ring that can be replaced? I can't remember what my fuel line looked like when I disconnected it. Would you take it to Ford or to a shop that works on AC? I'm going to look for a cheap black light tomorrow.

 

I found a video of someone disconnecting one on a ford, so they do have replaceable orings inside.

 

If you disconnect the lines you'll need to evacuate the system. Unless you have the proper tools, the AC system isn't something to fool with. I'm not familiar with our AC systems but I'd consider adding some coolant (used to be Freon of some particular # but I couldn't tell you what we use today... I'm sure it's listed under the hood or in the OM) on my own first. It sounds like you're a bit low based on your description of the compressor cycling.

 

Yes they do. You need to have the system evacuated then change the o-ring, then you can charge it up and hopefully have nice cold AC.

Edit: oops, just saw the above post when I posted this! Anyhow, the answer to the refrigerant type is R134a.

 

I'm not going to do it myself, because i don't have the proper equipment. As much as I hate my dealer, it's probably better than taking it to one of the mom and pop shops around here. the only one I trust doesn't do AC service.

 

I'd still give a shot at topping it off myself. Walmart or any of the auto parts store chains sell the R134a with the hose kit. I used to refill my old GM's back in the 70's and 80's and I think it's still a rather easy job. For all you know, the leak could be so small that a single can refill could last you 2 seasons.

 

Yes, but the oil around the spring lock coupler is a sure sign of a leak and how much could it possibly cost to change two orings and refill the system? The refill kit is going to cost $30 or more.

 

I think the point was that the dealership won't let you out without at least a 1 hour labor charge, plus materials. I just did a refill on a non-mustang with the $34 big can kit with hose and pressure gauge from Walmart and it worked fine once I figured out what I was doing.
$34 beats $150 to me and if it loses charge in a short period of time, I know the leak is enough to bother having serviced, but usually it's good for another 3 years. Just saying.

 

our shop charges 120 for an evac and recharge. its easy money because all we do is hook up our machine and press some buttons

our machine sucks out all of the compressor oil and replaces it with fresh oil too and we put a die in it in case of a leak so we can find it.


Just be thankful its not leaking in the dash.
we have a 2005 Chrysler pacifica in our shop and the condenser is in the dash well that means removing the WHOLE DASH!



that is a pic taken from the drivers door

 

Someone please correct me if I am wrong, but doesn't the R-134a (and the R-12 before it) contain a lubricant? Therefore, the AC should be run once a month for fifteen minutes or so to circulate the lubricant. That also might indicate any failure before trying to use the AC on a hot day.