Do It Yourself AC Freon

[bigmck]

Hi Guys -- My AC is a bit warm and have never replaced it in the 2004 Explorer. I have heard of these kits that you get at a parts store to recharge it. Have any of you used those and does it work? It is a pain or can the novice do it? Thanks,

 

[KPPCExplorer]

Anyone can do it, but it is very easy to do wrong.

The proper way is to get an AC manifold which will measure the pressure on the low and high side of your AC system than fill the low side as necessary.

The easier way is just to get one of those cans that has the gauge built in and charge your low side to the right pressure. As long as there are no problems elsewear in your AC system, this should work fine.

Do not get one of those cans without the gauge and fill it without knowing the pressure. Overcharging your system will do serious damage and make your problems much worse.

 

[bigmck]

Thanks very much for your answer. I found a video on Youtube that explains it fully.

 

[Maniak]

Personally, I would spend $60 and get a manifold set.. I've seen them at harbor freight and amazon for that price. Its cheap and works..

Now that you can get your pressures you can know what to do.. If you really are low on r-134 just pick up a can for $8-$18 and charge the system.

By knowing your pressures you can get a much better idea about what is going on and not just toss money at it. Especially since you get to keep another tool which is good.. Those Recharge kits with the gauge, last time I checked, were running $35-$40 and you don't get to keep a tool.

~Mark

 

[bigmck]

I just thought I would post what I found. It is a can of refrigerant with a hose and gauge that is reusable for just under $40. It also has a video on how to use it.
http://shop.advanceautoparts.com/we...ose-(20-oz-)-ac-pro_10034602-p?zoneAssigned=1

I hope someone else finds this useful. Thanks,

 

[Autoworker]

I used "AC PRO" that Advance Auto sells for 40 bucks. Hook it up to the low pressure side. It has a gauge you adjust to the outside temp, and then you fill to the indicated area. Worked great!