Nissan Altima L32. Manual - part 801

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REFRIGERATION SYSTEM

REFRIGERATION SYSTEM

HFC-134a (R-134a) Service Procedure

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SETTING OF SERVICE TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT

WARNING:

Avoid breathing the A/C refrigerant and oil vapor or mist. Exposure may irritate eyes, nose, and throat.

Remove the HFC-134a (R-134a) from the A/C system using certified service equipment meeting the

requirements of SAE J2210 (R-134a recycling equipment) or SAE J2201 (R-134a recovery equipment).

If an accidental system discharge occurs, ventilate the work area before resuming service. Additional

health and safety information may be obtained from the refrigerant and oil manufacturers.

Discharging Refrigerant

Evacuating System and Charging Refrigerant

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REFRIGERATION SYSTEM

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Discharging, Evacuating, and Recharging the A/C System

Checking of Refrigerant Leaks

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Perform a visual inspection of all refrigeration parts, fittings, hoses and components for signs of A/C oil leak-

age, damage and corrosion. A/C oil leakage may indicate an area of refrigerant leakage. Allow extra inspec-

tion time in these areas when using either an electronic refrigerant leak detector or fluorescent dye leak

detector.

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HA-21, "Maintenance of Oil Quantity 
in Compressor"

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HA-25, "Checking of Refrigerant 
Leaks"

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HA-4, "Contaminated Refrigerant"

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HA-25, "Checking of Refrigerant 
Leaks"

*4

HAC-5, "Operational Check"

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REFRIGERATION SYSTEM

If dye is observed, confirm the leak with an electronic refrigerant leak detector. It is possible a prior leak was

repaired and not properly cleaned.

When searching for leaks, do not stop when one leak is found but continue to check for additional leaks at all

system components and connections.

When searching for refrigerant leaks using an electronic leak detector, move the probe along the suspected

leak area at 25 - 50 mm (1 - 2 in) per second and no further than 6 mm (1/4 in) from the component.

CAUTION:

Moving the electronic leak detector probe slower and closer to the suspected leak area will improve

the chances of finding a leak.

FLUORESCENT LEAK DETECTOR

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FLUORESCENT LEAK DETECTOR

Checking System for Leaks Using the Fluorescent Leak Detector

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1. Check A/C system for leaks using the UV lamp and safety goggles (J-42220) in a low sunlight area (area

without windows preferable). Illuminate all components, fittings and lines. The dye will appear as a bright

green/yellow area at the point of leakage. Fluorescent dye observed at the evaporator drain opening indi-

cates an evaporator core assembly (tubes, core or TXV) leak.

2. If the suspected area is difficult to see, use an adjustable mirror or wipe the area with a clean shop rag or

cloth, with the UV lamp for dye residue.

3. After the leak is repaired, remove any residual dye using refrigerant dye cleaner (J-43872) to prevent

future misdiagnosis.

4. Perform a system performance check and verify the leak repair with an approved electronic refrigerant

leak detector.

NOTE:

Other gases in the work area or substances on the A/C components, for example, anti-freeze, windshield

washer fluid, solvents and oils, may falsely trigger the leak detector. Make sure the surfaces to be checked are

clean.

Clean with a dry cloth or blow off with shop air.

Do not allow the sensor tip of the detector to contact with any substance. This can also cause false readings

and may damage the detector.

Dye Injection

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NOTE:

This procedure is only necessary when recharging the A/C system or when the compressor has seized and

has been replaced.
1. Check the A/C system static (at rest) pressure. Pressure must be at least 345 kPa (3.52 kg/cm

2

, 50 psi).

2. Pour one bottle (1/4 ounce / 7.4 cc) of the A/C refrigerant dye into the injector tool (J-41459).

CAUTION:

If repairing the A/C system or replacing a component, pour the dye directly into the open system

connection and proceed with the service procedures.

3. Connect the injector tool to the A/C LOW PRESSURE side service valve.
4. Start the engine and switch the A/C ON and fan ON.
5. While the A/C is operating (compressor running), inject one bottle (1/4 ounce / 7.4 cc) of fluorescent dye

through the low-pressure service valve using dye injector tool (J-41459), refer to the manufacturer's oper-

ating instructions.

6. With the engine still running, disconnect the injector tool from the low-pressure service valve.
7. Operate the A/C system for a minimum of 20 minutes to mix the dye with the system oil. Depending on the

leak size, operating conditions and location of the leak, it may take from a few minutes to a few days for

the dye to penetrate the leak and become visible.