Automotive Air Conditioning Information Forum (Archives)

rayb16 on Thu July 19, 2012 1:15 PM

Year: 2000
Make: Daewoo
Model: Lanos
Engine Size: 1.6L
Refrigerant Type: 134a
Ambient Temp: 85
Pressure Low: na
Pressure High: na
Country of Origin: United States

problem with A/C. I believe it has a leak. when I enable the AC the green light comes on, on the dash, but the Compressor and Fans do not engage until after I have added some refrigerant.
Once the compressor does come on, it does not blow cold air. I can feel some cool components on the system like near the condensor or the firewall connections, but the air never blows cold. I do hear a hissing sound coming from the evaporator under the dash, I'm not sure if this is normal or not, it only happens when the compressor is engaged. I have read that there is a valve in there that can produce the hissing and could be normal.
attaching a gauge to the low side I have been able to charge it keep at the 'normal' zone.
Is it possible for the compressor to engage but not produce enough pressure? can this be determined by checking the High side?
I have recently added dye to the system, I have not checked for leaks yet, I need to pick up the uv light. I guess If it shows on the compressor that would be a help in determining the problem.

any thoughts on what might be wrong welcomed.

Thanks,
Ray.

Cussboy on Thu July 19, 2012 4:19 PM

Sounds like you have a substantial leak. Find that and fix that first.

mk378 on Thu July 19, 2012 5:02 PM

+1 it seems to be leaking out almost as fast as you add it. If you put the gauge on with the engine stopped and it reads zero, it has all leaked out. You may be able to hear the leak hissing after you charge a small amount with the engine off.

A 12 year old Daewoo that can still move under its own power, that's impressive.

Edited: Thu July 19, 2012 at 5:05 PM by mk378