Compressor Oil Specification

1. 1
   The HFC-134a system requires synthetic (PAG) compressor oil, whereas 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.

Handling Oil. Checking Compressor Oil. The oil used to lubricate the compressor circulates with the refrigerant. Whenever any system component is replaced or a large amount of gas leaks out, add oil to maintain the original oil quantity. Total oil quantity in the system: Front only: PAG 120 ± 10 cc (4.1 ± 0.3 oz). Front and rear: PAG 180 ± 10 cc (6.1 ± 0.3 oz). Oil Return Operation. There is a close similarity between the oil and the refrigerant. During normal operation, part of the oil recirculates with the refrigerant in the system. When checking the oil quantity in the system or replacing any system component, the compressor must be run in advance for oil return operation. 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.