Compressor Oil Repair Procedures

Oil Specification

1. 1
   The HFC-134a system requires synthetic (PAG) compressor oil, while the R-12 system requires mineral compressor oil. The two oils must never be mixed.
2. 2
   The compressor oil (PAG) depends on the compressor model. Be sure to use the oil specified for the compressor model.
3. 3
   The oil must not contain moisture, dust, metal powder, or the like.
4. 4
   Do not mix with other oil.
5. 5
   Water content in the oil increases when exposed to air. After use, immediately seal the oil from air. (HFC-134a compressor oil absorbs moisture very easily.)
6. 6
   Compressor oil must be stored in steel containers, not plastic containers.

Oil Handling Inspecting Compressor Oil
The oil used to lubricate the compressor circulates with the refrigerant. Whenever any system component is replaced or a large amount of refrigerant has leaked, add oil to maintain the original oil quantity.

Total oil quantity in the PAG system: 120 ± 10 cm3 (4.23 ± 0.35 oz)

Oil Return Operation
Oil and refrigerant are closely related. During normal operation, part of the oil circulates with the refrigerant in the system. When checking the oil quantity in the system or replacing any system component, the compressor must be operated in advance to return the oil. The procedure is as follows:

1. 1
   Open all doors and the hood.
2. 2
   Start the engine and turn the A/C switch to the "ON" position, and set the blower motor fan control knob to the maximum position.
3. 3
   Operate the compressor for more than 20 minutes at 800 to 1000 rpm to stabilize the system.
4. 4
   Stop the engine.