Air conditioning refrigerant sight glass (arrowed)

that the air conditioner continues to operate at peak efficiency:

a) Inspect the condition of the compressor drivebelt. If it is worn or deteriorated, renew it (see Chapter 1).

b) Check the drivebelt tension and, if necessary, adjust it (see Chapter 1),

c) Inspect the system hoses. Look for cracks, bubbles, hardening and

deterioration. Inspect the hoses and all fittings for oil bubbles or seepage. If

there is any evidence of wear, damage or leakage, renew the hose(s).

24 Inspect the condenser fins for leaves, insects and any other foreign material that may have embedded itself in the fins. Use a 'fin comb' or compressed air to remove debris from the condenser.

2 It's a good idea to operate the system for about ten minutes at least once a month. This is particularly important during the winter months because long term non-use can cause hardening, and subsequent failure, of the seals.

3 Leaks in the air conditioning system are best spotted when the system is brought up to operating temperature and pressure, by running the engine with the air conditioning ON for five minutes. Shut the engine off and inspect the air conditioning hoses and connections. Traces of oil usually indicate refrigerant leaks.

4 If the air conditioning system doesn't operate at all, check the fuse panel and the air conditioning relay, located in the fuse/relay box in the engine compartment.

5 The most common cause of poor cooling

Many car accessory shops sell one-shot air conditioning recharge aerosols. These generally contain refrigerant, compressor oil, leak sealer and system conditioner. Some also have a dye to help pinpoint leaks.

Warning: These products must only be used as directed by the manufacturer, and

Дата добавления: 2014-12-23