A/C Service Tips and Precautions

AWARNING When handling refrigerant (R-12):
•   Always wear eye protection.
•   Do not let refrigerant get on your skin or your eyes; if it does:
- Do not rub your eyes or skin.
- Splash large quantities of cool water in your eyes or on your skin.
- Rush to a physician or hospital for immediate treatment. Do not attempt to treat it yourself.
•   Keep refrigerant containers (cans of R-12) stored below 40°C (100°F).
•   Do not handle or discharge refrigerant in an enclosed area near an open flame; it may ignite and produce poisonous gas.
• Chlorine from chemicals called chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) destroy the ozone in the stratosphere. Automotive air conditioning systems currently use chlorofluorocarbons as the refrigerant. Auto air conditioning service equipment has been developed to minimize the release of CFCs to the atmosphere. All service procedures should be performed using this equipment and the manufacturer's instructions.

1. Always disconnect the negative cable from the battery whenever replacing air conditioner parts.
2. Keep moisture and dust out of the system. When disconnecting any lines, plug or cap the fittings immediately; don't remove the caps or plugs until just before the lines are reconnected.
3. Before connecting any hose or line, apply a few drops of refrigerant oil to the seat of the O-ring or flare nut.
4. When tightening or loosening a fitting, use a second wrench to support the matching fitting.
5. When discharging the system, use a refrigerant recovery system; don't release refrigerant into the atmosphere. 6. Add refrigerant oil after replacing the following parts;
Condenser    20 cc (2/3 fl oz)
Evaporator    45 cc (1-1/2 fl oz)
Line or hose    10 cc (1/3 fl oz)
Receiver    10 cc (1 /3 fI oz)
Compressor    On compressor replacement, subtract the volume of oil drained from the removed compressor from 120 cc (4 fl oz), and drain the calculated volume of oil from the new compressor. 120 cc (4 fl oz) - Volume of removed compressor = Draining volume.