Ford Fiesta: Climate Control System - General Information / Electronic Leak Detection. General Procedures

Special Service Tools / General Equipment

Electronic Leak Detector

Inspection

1
NOTE
Use a Rotunda-approved electronic refrigerant leak detector certified to SAE J2791 for R-134a refrigerant.
Good ventilation is required in the area where the electronic leak test is performed. If the surrounding air is contaminated with refrigerant gas, the leak detector will indicate this gas all the time. Odors from other chemicals, such as antifreeze, brake parts cleaner or other cleaning solvents, can cause the same problem. Using a fan to ventilate the test area before starting the leak detection procedure helps remove small traces of contamination from the air, but the fan must be turned off during testing.
If the surrounding air is contaminated with refrigerant gas, the leak detector will continuously indicate this gas. Odors from other chemicals, such as antifreeze, brake cleaner or other cleaning solvents, can cause the same problem.
R-134a, if present, is heavier than air and tends to flow downward from the leak source. A leak may not be detected if the sniffer probe tip is held above the leaking fitting, line or component. Always thoroughly check for R-134a leakage below, above and around the fitting, line or component.
Check the service ports for leaks. Remove the caps and blow air over the service ports to remove trapped refrigerant before leak testing the ports.
- 023-22791 Robinair A/C Refrigerant Leak Detector Infrared with Case
  Use General Equipment: Electronic Leak Detector
2
NOTE
System pressure must be 413-551 kPa (60-80 psi) at 24 °C with the engine off and cooled down. The pressure reading may be higher if the engine is hot.
Check the refrigerant system for leaks. Follow the handling instructions and operating techniques supplied with the electronic leak detector.

Electronic Leak Detection. General Procedures

Special Service Tools / General Equipment

Electronic Leak Detector

Inspection

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