Replacing the AC dryer, how ?

[melmount]

My dryer for my AC has a hole in it. I just removed it and ordered another along with new o rings. What, if anything should I do or check before I install the new one. Do I need to vacuumed the system once it's installed ? What's the process to get this working again? Th

[nate87]

yeah youll need to get the system vacuum tested but basically you just swamp it out (im pretty sure) but make sure that your new dryer as soon as you pull the caps off you install it, leaving it open to long the drying chemical will absorb a lot of moisture in the air and it will become useless. but by sayin it has a hole you mean theres no 134a in you system at all anymore? if so, just get it vacuum tested and have the system recharged. or you could pay someone to do all of it. up to you.

[melmount]

I know I found the leak. Pinhole in the dryer, yes, all the r134 leaked out. The dryer is off now. The vacuuming the system ? What does this do? I don't need to test it or leaks, I am positive I found it. I was thinking I needed to do it for moisture or something?

[melmount]

Can I just recharge it?

[nate87]

well basically the vacuum test is obviously to test for leaks, its always done to your system by a refrigerant recycler system before they pump 134a into your system. if you dont want to test it cool, just make sure stuff in tight and not over tight so there isnt a leak. vacuum testing after any ac work is always recomended if doing yourself and is always done by the shop doing the work. and your dryer will remover any moister in the system.

[melmount]

Approx how much freon do I need to add? What about the oil for it? I have added r134 before but never dealt with an empty system. Thx for all the help

[Evil Eye]

There should be plenty of oil already in the system. The vacuuming removes all the moisture in the system and it is a necessary step. If you just top it off with 134a without vacuuming, you will have problems (compressor cycling, hot spots, etc). BTW, I believe it is two full cans to top off the AC on these things. Best bet is to borrow a set of gauges from a buddy or get a set for yourself. They are cheap from Harbor Freight.

[melmount]

I know that when the dryer developed a pin hole in the bottom and a lot of oil leaked out, I am going to have a friend at a local shop vacuume the system for me. How do I check the oil level that's in it still? Or how o I get it all out and add new? Is this necessary to change? I am good at engines but never had to screw with AC. Can u explain this to me? Thx

[mgassel]

Originally Posted by melmount

I know that when the dryer developed a pin hole in the bottom and a lot of oil leaked out, I am going to have a friend at a local shop vacuume the system for me. How do I check the oil level that's in it still? Or how o I get it all out and add new? Is this necessary to change? I am good at engines but never had to screw with AC. Can u explain this to me? Thx

You would better off letting someone certified do the recharge that way it will be done properly. You can damage the system if you add too much freon or not adding a little oil.

It has to be vaccumed or you can not charge the system. Vaccuming removes all air from the system.

[Evil Eye]

Originally Posted by melmount

I know that when the dryer developed a pin hole in the bottom and a lot of oil leaked out, I am going to have a friend at a local shop vacuume the system for me. How do I check the oil level that's in it still? Or how o I get it all out and add new? Is this necessary to change? I am good at engines but never had to screw with AC. Can u explain this to me? Thx

There's no way to know for sure how much oil is in the system unless you remove all the components on the hot side and blow them out with compressed air.