Engine AC leak

[paulglaser]

I have a 2014 Fleetwood Expedition. I had Freon added in March because the blower was blowing warm air. The AC specialist did check for leaks at all accessible spots. It worked perfectly. Two months later, it did it again. I took it back to the same mechanic and they added about one pound of Freon and rechecked the accessible locations for leaks. They noted that if it happens again, it will most likely be a leak in between the two accessible locations at the front or back of the RV. It failed after about two weeks and they indicated that the next step would require them to remove all of the trays underneath the RV in order to access the AC tubing that runs in those trays along with several other large cable and wire assemblies. Is there another alternative way to find the leak without performing this massive three day repair job?

[Skip426]

Did the shop suggest adding dye to the R-134 A so they could check for leaks with a black light?

[SavnTheWales]

Check the back of the compressor. If there is any oil you have the same problem I did. There is a pressure relief valve that was leaking. Dealer said I had to get a new compressor…. However I found I could order a new valve from Autozone for $15.

I proved the leak by running the AC and used my phone to video the valve. I was seeing bubbles.

You will have to depressurize AC to replace valve and then vacuum and recharge. Easy if you have the vacuum pump and gauges. Otherwise take to any AC shop.

[craigd853]

Originally Posted by Skip426

Did the shop suggest adding dye to the R-134 A so they could check for leaks with a black light?

Hello, good idea Skip but adding leak detector won't do any good if the leak is in one of the hoses that are inaccessible. Rear diesel coaches are well known for their a/c line leaks and the lines are sometimes extremely hard to get to.

[DRM901]

I agree on the dye. It won't hurt and it might help. Our dash AC went out and the evaporator was leaking. Took the dye to find that out.

We also ended up replacing the air dryer & compressor because it still wasn't cooling that well.

Sent from my SM-G973U using iRV2 - RV Forum mobile app

[Skip426]

Originally Posted by craigd853

Hello, good idea Skip but adding leak detector won't do any good if the leak is in one of the hoses that are inaccessible. Rear diesel coaches are well known for their a/c line leaks and the lines are sometimes extremely hard to get to.

After replacing my own heater hoses (78') I do realize that the A/C refrigerant lines , ( running up the opposite frame rail ) are hard to access ; my question about the dye , was to find out if the shop had explored all avenues of leak detection .
The dye can even be detected in the A/C housing condensate drip tube , if there is a leak from the evaporator , inside the housing.