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
   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
   The water content of the oil increases when exposed to air. Immediately seal the oil from air after use. (HFC-134a compressor oil readily absorbs moisture.)
6. 6
   Compressor oil must be stored in steel containers, not plastic.

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

Total oil quantity in system: PAG OIL: 100 ± 10 cm3 (3.52 ± 0.35 oz.)

Oil Return Operation: There is a close relationship between oil and refrigerant. 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 for the oil return operation. The procedure is as follows:

1. 1
   Open all doors and the hood.
2. 2
   Start the engine and set the air conditioner switch to "ON", and set the blower 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.