Missing a couple of key steps:

Before putting in the new refridgerant, he should do a 45 min pressure test
with nitrogen, and then pull a hard vaccuum for 5 min. Should maintain HV
without leaks, as well as the pressure test.

Also, never heard of using a solvent inside the system, but that's just an
expression of ignorance - maybe there's some safe solvent out there.

If those tests turn out OK - then fill it. Otherwise, you'll just be
throwing you R-134a into the atmosphere, and be right back where you
started. Really.

Marshall Ruskin
84 Westy

>Volks,
>Thanks to Joel and others with my Sanden compressor question.
>My problem is A/C is not blowing COLD. Took it to my neighbor who is
>truck mech and auto A/C mech for big-rigs, just for a 134a top off for
>the rig was converted when I bought the Vanagon.
>He says following:
>1) When he touched schrader valves high-side grey-ish brown-ish material
>came out with the small amount of gas. He immediately suspected
>problems.
>2) He put on the gauges and it being about 89F outside gauges
>corresponded to proper amount of gas in the system.
>3) He next checked head pressure and could only get 150 bs maximum out
>of high side w/unit running wide open, at this point about 90F outside.
>His Diagnosis:
>A) Unit was converted in 1998 as indicated by mandated sticker not due
>to Eco-friendly owner, but rather compressor failure. Compressor looks
>-very- new.
>B) When job done, lines not properly blown out w/nitrogen/brake cleaner
>and all metal from old dying compressor pistons remained in the lines in
>solution w/old oil.
>C) New compressor now losing compression due to digest of metal filings
>left in lines
>His Recommendations:
>1) New: compressor, reciever/dryer, expansion valve and O-rings.
>2) Properly blow lines out with some solvent similar to brake cleaner to
>remove all contaminants.
>3) Remove old/install new parts mentioned above, oil compressor, vac
>down and refill.
>
>This all sound right on to me, he is a friend and offers all labor for
>next to nothing ($100 USDs). Anyone see anything wrong with this
>diagnosis or had similar circumstances to have me look at something
>else?
>Any and all feedback appreciated
>Regards
>Mark Magee
>Kemah TX USA
>90 Carat
>John 14:6
>