Automotive Air Conditioning Information Forum (Archives)

Shepherd777 on Sat June 02, 2012 2:47 PM

Year: 2003
Make: Kenworth
Model: T2000
Engine Size: 15L ISX
Refrigerant Type: R134a
Ambient Temp: 75
Pressure Low: n/a
Pressure High: n/a
Country of Origin: United States

Hello All -

My Kenworth condenser had a leak develop by the upper fitting and the refrigerant leaked out.

The manufacturer replaced the condenser with a new unit since it was still under warranty.

Is there any way to determine how much refrigerant oil leaked out?

How much oil should I re-add to the system when installing the new condenser?

Thanks.

TRB on Sat June 02, 2012 3:05 PM

It's always a guess.

-------------------------

When considering your next auto A/C purchase, please consider the site that supports you: ACkits.com
Contact: ACKits.com

chris142 on Sun June 03, 2012 12:05 PM

That condensor is pretty big(usually 4.30 lbs) . I'd make sure to add enough oil that was lost just by the condensor replacement. My guess would be to add 4 or 5oz of oil back.

These systems are pretty big with long lines going back to the sleeper so if it is slightly overcharged with oil it will still cool fine.

chris142 on Sun June 03, 2012 12:07 PM

Quote
Originally posted by: chris142
That condensor is pretty big(usually 4.30 lbs) . I'd make sure to add enough oil that was lost just by the condensor replacement. My guess would be to add 4 or 5oz of oil back.



These systems are pretty big with long lines going back to the sleeper so if it is slightly overcharged with oil it will still cool fine.

Whoops.I meant to say that the system capacity is usually 4.30 lbs on those and that the condensor is pretty large incase I confused any body.

Shepherd777 on Mon June 04, 2012 9:03 AM

Thanks for the comments.

After posting, I found the following info from the Sanden web site:

Oil Replacement Amount During Service
• When replacing a system component the goal is to restore to the original factory oil amount. This amount can be found on the compressor label. Use the chart below as
a guide for restoring oil quantities when replacing system components.

Typical Oil Amount - Large Truck

Major System Leak - 3oz 88cc
Condenser - Evaporator - 2oz 60cc
Receiver Drier - Minor System Leak - Suction Line To Front Evaporator Other Hoses or Hard Lines - 1oz 30cc
Compressor Equal to amount drained from old compressor

So I guess I'll take chris142's advice and add his low side estimate of 4oz. I'd rather have too much than too little.

Shepherd777 on Mon June 04, 2012 9:09 AM

What is the best way to install the oil?

I have an 8.5 oz can.

Just pour 4 oz. down the top of the condenser opening port, after installing the bottom fitting so it doesn't leak out?

chris142 on Mon June 04, 2012 10:11 PM

Pour it in wherever you can fit it. You probly wont get all 4oz in the condenser though.