Automotive Air Conditioning Information Forum (Archives)

chefjim51 on Tue March 27, 2012 9:22 PM

Year: 2004
Make: Volkswagen
Model: Passat
Engine Size: 2.8
Refrigerant Type: 134
Ambient Temp: 70
Pressure Low: 30
Pressure High: 100
Country of Origin: United States

I recently developed a very tiny pinhole in the line that runs from the compressor to the dryer. Replaced the line and the dryer then pulled a hard vacuum for 30 minutes as per the instructions found here; then turned off the vacuum and let it flash for 10 minutes and did not find a leak. Then repeated the process, again as per the instructions found here; again, could not find a leak so I was very happy. I then added a 3 oz can of oil consisting of 1 oz oil, 1 oz conditioner and 1 oz 134, then added the recommended amount of 134 (24 oz).

When I was almost through the second can, the air started blowing warm and has continued to do so; there was a puddle of condensation under the car but that stopped dripping too. The compressor clutch is engaged and now the low side is at 30 and the high side at 100.

Any idea what happened?

mk378 on Tue March 27, 2012 10:24 PM

Is the suction line cold / icy? It could have been evaporator freeze-up, but of course it would work normal again after thawing. This appears to be a complicated system with an electronically controlled variable displacement compressor. Additives really should not be used.

chefjim51 on Tue March 27, 2012 10:38 PM

No, the suction line is just barely cool to the touch; actually, the high side line was colder than the suction line when I was charging it.

Dougflas on Sun April 01, 2012 7:54 PM

control valve problem. As mentioned, you should not put snake oil in that system.