XK8 / XKR ( X100 ) 1996 - 2006

1998 can't find low pressure port to recharge air conditioner

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Old 04-29-2017 | 06:20 PM
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Default 1998 can't find low pressure port to recharge air conditioner



Today I found that I get no cold air from a.c.. I tried to find the low pressure port to recharge it, but no luck. One older post indicated it is be air cleaner and radiator, see photo, but there is no port evident.

Can you please point me to it?

Thanks, John
 
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Old 04-29-2017 | 07:27 PM
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Default Low side port

If memory serves it is near the firewall passenger side. Be careful. If you overcharge system you will create a nightmare. I suggest an evac and recharge at a qualified a/c shop.
if you decide to chance it do not use the gas that has sealer or oil in it. Sealer will screw the system, and an excessive oil charge will not allow proper heat exchange or worse damage the valve plate in the compressor.
good luck
 
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Old 04-29-2017 | 10:34 PM
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Thanks Denny, I'm going to just put some refrigerant in if I can find the port. Tried Gus excellent site and couldn't find anything there either.

BTW, no one has discussed the need to short the connection to the low pressure switch in any write up I've seen. Back on my 1980/1990 Ford's, and GM cars this was critical. Premise being - you lost refrigerant, always trips the low pressure switch preventing compressor from running, you'd stand no Chance of getting more R134 in unless you could get the system to run allowing system to accept more of the gas. So that's why you shorted the switch connection (it goes open when pressure too low) to allow introduction of more refrigerant. May I assume this is N/A (not applicable) to X100s?

John
 
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Old 04-30-2017 | 12:08 AM
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I have completely evacuated the system on my 99XK8. You don't need to short or bypass anything to refill the sysyem. How do you know you are low on freon, it could be other things causing the AC not to work. If you are actually low on freon you have a leak somewhere and that should be addressed first. Most systems have a green fluorescent dye that will help you pinpoint the leak.
I agree with Denny that the system should be completely evacuated with a vacuum pump and then refilled with the proper amount of freon.




This is the port you are looking for. It is between the air duct and firewall on right side, passenger side, of the car.
 
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Old 04-30-2017 | 05:24 AM
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John,
Following up on Bob's post, you can get a cheap UV torch that will show up any leaks:

Amazon Amazon


Thankfully I didn't find any scorpions, but it did show up a leak in the condenser I wasn't expecting

Mike
 
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Old 04-30-2017 | 07:53 AM
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There are glasses you can get at Autozone that will make the green dye easier to see.
 
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Old 04-30-2017 | 09:50 AM
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Default System

The a/c system on this car is not an orfice tube system like on the old ford and gm vehicles. This is an expansion valve system. If you start shorting switches in this ststem
you will cause damage to the transducers that control the compressor, fan operation etc. There are several sensors in this system that can be damaged with improper technique.
If you located a leak in the condenser you will have to replace it. No sealant please.
 
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Old 04-30-2017 | 11:14 AM
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Thanks guys. I've always been taught that all a.c. systems loose some refrigerant slowly year after year. Guess I figured since mines never been touched in 19 years that's the issue.

Well I'll scope out prices to hire someone to do as you suggest.

John
 
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Old 04-30-2017 | 11:14 AM
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Thanks, Denny - new condenser is already in my box of parts waiting to be fitted.

John - apologies for the hijack - back 'on the side'

Mike
 
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Old 04-30-2017 | 03:07 PM
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Default A/c definitely

Change the drier. Moisture and r 134 do not play well together.
 
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Old 04-30-2017 | 03:55 PM
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Originally Posted by dennysjag
Change the drier. Moisture and r 134 do not play well together.
Also on order. Guess this applies to John too as we're both in the same MY?
 
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Old 04-29-2019 | 02:02 AM
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Default AC Dryer

Why we are on subject, wheres the ac dryer?

Ltd
 
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Old 04-29-2019 | 02:38 AM
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Default Thread is 2 years old

Originally Posted by Ltd
Why we are on subject, wheres the ac dryer?

Ltd
Ltd - they were on the subject 2 years ago! LOL! Are you digging for gold again?
 
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Old 04-29-2019 | 02:48 AM
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If memory serves me right, I think it's towards the front right of the car engine bay, mounted in front of the air box next to the radiator fans.
 

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