Author Topic: Aircon still failing  (Read 949 times)

Vigman

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Aircon still failing
« on: March 29, 2023, 12:02:23 PM »
After several leaks I had the condenser replaced on 2007 Jazz by a well established air on firm. It still leaked so they came and re-gassed, then returned a few weeks later to test for signs of leaks. None found. They re-gassed last year but I just tried the AC and there is no cold so:

Where else could this be leaking?

If from compressor, then what sort of cost is this please?

Is it more cost efficient to have an annual top up?

Any other advice welcomed as I have spent a lot to get nowhere!

TIA

Jocko

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Re: Aircon still failing
« Reply #1 on: March 29, 2023, 01:40:07 PM »
Have you confirmed the clutch to the compressor is engaging? Can you hear it?

Lord Voltermore

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Re: Aircon still failing
« Reply #2 on: March 29, 2023, 02:44:48 PM »
Aircon specialists should be able to find the source of the leak using a florescent dye.   They are required by law  to trace and rectify leaks  rather than just keep topping a leak up.  But of course the leak might be beyond economic repair.   I dont know if an annual top up  is infrequent enough to be legally and environmentally  acceptable.

That said  with a car that age  it might be worth investigating whether  you can buy combined gas and leak sealer kit.  I believe  they do exist but it  might be illegal to sell it in some countries.    I'm not sure if professional air con companies ever use such products. Its a bit like radiator leak sealer. (Normal regassing also includes some lubricating oil for the compressor . ) It might work for a while on an older car  but might also permanently clog or ruin  the aircon system.  And it might not work at all for some leaks such as  worn rubber seals in the compressor. 
« Last Edit: March 29, 2023, 02:51:06 PM by Lord Voltermore »
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Vigman

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Re: Aircon still failing
« Reply #3 on: March 29, 2023, 02:49:32 PM »
Thanks. Yes, the company (a specialist who has done this for 25+ years) did do a dye test and spent a long time investigating it. This was last Spring but just trying out again a week ago there is no cold air at all.
I’ll get back to them but don’t want a refill too early in the season!

Vigman

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Re: Aircon still failing
« Reply #4 on: March 29, 2023, 02:51:15 PM »
Have you confirmed the clutch to the compressor is engaging? Can you hear it?
Thanks. I can see in the observation glass that there is no fluid running in the system (again!) despite a new condenser and dye test.

Jocko

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Re: Aircon still failing
« Reply #5 on: March 29, 2023, 03:23:27 PM »
There will be no fluid running if the clutch is not engaging. It is fairly common from what I have read on the forum here. Even as simple as a faulty relay. With the aircon switched on, confirm the compressor SHAFT (not the pulley) is turning.

VicW

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Re: Aircon still failing
« Reply #6 on: March 30, 2023, 11:09:05 AM »
What is the outside air temperature when the aircon doesn't work? It will not work at temperatures below about +4C, this is to protect the heat exchanger under the dashboard from icing up.

Vic.

Vigman

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Re: Aircon still failing
« Reply #7 on: April 03, 2023, 12:41:05 PM »
I’ve tried it on various sunny days this spring so 12-15 degrees. The system will be completely empty again!

Marco1979

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Re: Aircon still failing
« Reply #8 on: April 03, 2023, 04:29:38 PM »
Can you feel the compressor kicking in? I remember my 1.2 would be slower when the compressor was driven. Also, when engaging and disengaging you could feel a sort of slight judder. If you do not notice anything, I think it is an electrical problem (relay or something similar).

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