Community Forums

winnie32v · 06-19-2015, 05:26 AM

2000 F-53 Chassis.

1. What type of AC Refrigerant was used for the DASH AC in this model year? Is there a tag somewhere that shows this? I hope its '34 and not '12.

2, Where is the AC fitting to add refrigerant?

Any suggestions / hints as how to best do this and what to look for so it is done correctly?
I will probably get a can at the auto store and do it myself.

I expect that after 15 years the refrigerang could be 'topped off' to ensure peak performance.

Advise, Please.
Thanks for your time.

jsides · 06-19-2015, 05:50 AM

That year should be 134a. The fittings on 134 are larger than 12. The fittings should be under the hood on the right side, they are aluminum in color and have quick disconnect fitting on the end. If you get a recharge kit buy the one with the gauge. You hook up to the smaller port, which is the low pressure side, hook up, start motor, and then open valve, watch gauge it will show how much is in system, you cannot over fill with this simple refill, it will take what it can. good luck

kkeever · 06-19-2015, 05:58 AM

Agree that it should be R-134a. However, AC systems are closed systems and should not need to be "topped off". If the system is not performing correctly it should be looked at by someone familiar with Automotive AC systems.

Too much refrigerant is just as bad as not enough.

Nick-B · 06-19-2015, 01:44 PM

First off, are you actually having performance issues with the dash AC? Poor cooling can be caused by a coolant shutoff valve that is stuck open. Pinch off a heater hose (gently) and see if the dash vents get cooler. If you still have poor cooling, then the system may be low on refrigerant - R134a.

Fittings are most likely at the compressor so pull the doghouse (interior engine cover) and take a look. All that said, kkeever is right in that too much is as bad as not enough. Some folks get lucky by just dumping some in, but proper way is full system evacuation, a check for leaks then refill with precise amount of refrigerant and verified by correct operating pressures.

Patrol 65 · 06-20-2015, 08:34 PM

On my unit they are on the passenger side of the top of the engine and can be accessed through the front of the hood. I think that one is blue and the other is black.

pop-sicle · 06-21-2015, 02:25 AM

I have a 2000 coachmen on a 99 f53 chassis.
Just added some 134a to mine, first off does it need refrigerant ..and yes it can be low leakage primarily occurs though the compressor seal .. what degree temperature is coming from vents should be around 40 degrees early in morning when outside temperature is not so high outside temperature will have effects on output.

My fitting were on the left. . Just behind the fitting you can see the receiver dryer there is a sight glass in the top of it if there are bubbles in sight glass that is indicated you need refrigerant.

If you're not sure where to hook up charge hose start system and let it run for a few minutes the low pressure line will be cold to the touch. .like has been said get charge can with Guage.

As has been said if the system is too low and requires exssive refridgent the system should be leak tested, repaired ,evacuated then Recharged.

winnie32v · 06-21-2015, 04:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Patrol 65

On my unit they are on the passenger side of the top of the engine and can be accessed through the front of the hood. I think that one is blue and the other is black.

Thanks, Found the AC connectors just where you said they were.

NEXT, can you service the Basement Air the same way?
AND....where are the connectors located for this unit. I have 2 compressors and wonder if each is separate.

Advise, please.
Thanks.

winnie32v · 06-23-2015, 10:26 AM

Found the correct fitting.
Started the motor and turned the AC to Max with fan on high
Snapped the gauge on low pressure side and reading was toward the low, in the green.
Added almost 1can of 134 and now with the motor running, the reading goes from about 36 to 40, about the middle of the green on the gauge.
Stopped there. Inside the coach it was about 75 - 80 degrees and the AC was blowing a little cool...not cold. Maybe 65 degrees. I guess this is acceptable since I was sitting and not moving air over the cooler when driving.
I expect that it will cool down when driving. The low pressure pipe was very cold and dripping due to condensation. It seems like everything is working OK.

Thanks for the replies.