Refrigerant System Tests

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Mercury Mountaineer and 2003 Ford Explorer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Connect an A/C recovery and/or charging station with gauges, or Connect an R134a manifold gauge set to the refrigerant system. For additional information, refer to MANIFOLD GAUGE SET CONNECTION .
Set the climate control system to MAX A/C (if equipped), or select A/C and RECIRC (if equipped), at HI blower.

NOTE: When the ambient temperature exceeds 38°C (100°F), do not run the engine above normal idle speed.

Run the engine at 1500 rpm for 10 minutes.
Stabilize the vehicle interior temperature at 21°C to 27°C (70°F to 80°F).
Record the high and low system pressures using the R134a Manifold Gauge Set, and refer to Fig 1 and Fig 2.

Fig 1: Clutch Cycle Time Chart (1 Of 2)
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Fig 2: Clutch Cycle Time Chart (2 Of 2)
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
1. Compressor may make noise on initial run. This is slugging condition caused by excessive liquid refrigerant.
2. Compressor clutch may not cycle in ambient temperatures above 80°F depending on humidity conditions.
3. Low pressure reading will be normal to high if pressure is taken at accumulator and if restriction is downstream of service access valve.
4. Low pressure reading will be low if pressure is taken near the compressor and restriction is upstream of service access valve.