AC system Leaks R-134A every 2-weeks

BURTON WEISMAN

MEMBER
1913 JEEP CHEROKEE

1993 Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ltd.
6-cyl
4WD All the time
188,000 miles
Transmission Cooler installed for Travel Trailer Towing

Hi,

Since 2005 we have been refilling the R-134A refrigerant approximately every 2-weeks because it leaks out.

No one can tell us where the leak is. Repair estimates vary from $700 - $1,500. Some think the problem is that the evaporator needs replacement, but the source of the leak has never been diagnosed.

The AC works reliably and blows ice cold until the refrigerant leaks out.

I've read much about AC system products that stop leaks. Is this viable and affordable?

How should we approach this problem? We're driving 3,000 miles back down to Belize this October 07 with our 3 dogs and cannot consider this run without reliable AC.

Thank you very much for any advice you can provide.

We've gladly provided a donation for your expertise.

Kind regards,

Burton Weisman
Ojai, CA
310-488-3319

2 Replies

2CARPRO JACK

MECHANIC
11,533 POSTS

I dont recommend the use of any kind of stop leak in a/c systems. You need to go to a shop that specializes in a/c, I cant see why no one can find it, especially if it leaks out that fast

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Friday, July 20th, 2007 AT 5:37 PM

DPWD23

MECHANIC
136 POSTS

If your mechanic won't do it for you, buy a refirdgerant with a UV dye added to it. Drive it for a couple days and using a UV pen and glasses, look over the ENTIRE system until you find the dye. If it is leaking this fast, you will definately find it. If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, make sure that the mechanic is using a UV dye to look for leaks, not just looking for oil.

You can try once the system is fully discharged replacing the refill valves. Auto parts stores sell a kit with 2 valves and a tool to pull them out, but the system must have NO pressure, and should be pulled to full vacuum before refilling.

If nobody can find your leak, you will likely need to find it yourself. I too do not recomend adding any stop leak stuff to nearly any system. Usually do more harm than good.
If your system has been converted from r12 to 134a, try refilling and taking your adaptor off the low side, and don't even bother with one on the high side. I have seen converted systems leak from the fill port because of faulty adaptors.