A/C leak

BSHAMMY

MEMBER
1999 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN
V8
4WD
AUTOMATIC
107,000 MILES

I have been having A/C problems for several years and have just thrown my hands up. The A/C blows hard, but the air is warm. I took it to an A/C shop and was told there is a leak right where you refill the Freon. However, they told me that I have to replace the entire system (dual air) and it's going to cost me hundreds and hundreds of dollars. They said that you can not just replace the metal piece that screws into the A/C system. Any ideas as to what I can do?

2 Replies

FERMECH

MEMBER
14 POSTS

The valve inside the filler port looks just like a shedder valve from a tire, buy the tool very inexpensive and try to remove the valve from inside the filler port, replace with a new one fill and search for a leak with soapy water just like a tire.

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Wednesday, June 4th, 2008 AT 8:12 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,269 POSTS

Hi,

The idea that there is a leak where the system is filled could be one of two things. First and very unlikely, there could be a hole in the steel line. The second is the Schrader valve where the system is filled.

If you question if it is the valve, here is a link that explains how to locate a leak in the system:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/air-conditioner-leak-detection

If you find it is the Schrader valve, I attached a pic of one below so you know what it looks like. You will need a removal tool to remove and replace it, but they are inexpensive and any parts store should have one.

Now, once that is replaced, the vehicle's system should be vacuumed and then recharged. Here is a link that explains how to do it. You will need Freon, an A/C manifold set, and a vacuum pump. I realize most people don't own one, but again, most parts stores will lend one to you.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/re-charge-an-air-conditioner-system

I want to end with this thought. Because there is a leak doesn't justify replacing the entire A/C system. I would replace the two-dollar Schrader valve and recharge the system to see if it takes care of it.

Let me know if you have.

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