96 A/C Problems

Ok have a 96 blazer 4.3 and just got back from a week vacation and all of a sudden the a/c is blowing hot. I have read a few other posts and think that I just need to recharge it but wanted some opinions before spending needed money. The a.c system was also replaced less then a year ago, any idea would be greatfull thanks. Mitch

That's exactly what it sounds like because the same thing happened to my car. I had to buy one of those retrofit kits because mine still used r12 but it was only $40. Being yours is a 96 it should already be using r13a which you can get at wal-mart for about $10 a pound. I would try to test your pressure first though just in case it's a leak which would be indicated by the thing being totally empty. If it still has some left, but under the green area if your using an AC pressure guage, recharging it is probably your best bet.

That's exactly what it sounds like because the same thing happened to my car. I had to buy one of those retrofit kits because mine still used r12 but it was only $40. Being yours is a 96 it should already be using r13a which you can get at wal-mart for about $10 a pound. I would try to test your pressure first though just in case it's a leak which would be indicated by the thing being totally empty. If it still has some left, but under the green area if your using an AC pressure guage, recharging it is probably your best bet.

Wal Mart DEATH KITS

You cannot properly and safely recharge an air condition system with them.

The one side stop and go gauge does not tell you what your system is doing or is over charged or undercharged.
A overcharged or malfunction air condition system can reach over 500 lbs of pressure.
Enough to blow up that can or system and freeze you at first and the burn you or blind you and if any propane /butane in there blow and light you up.

The stop leak crap and who knows what kind of oil in the kits there will stop your system for sure.
Just like pouring super glue in it.
And some kits even contain freon with a butane mixer.
Good for a big blast.

If you are going to do it do it right and safe.
Here is what you need to start with.
http://www.ackits.com/merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=AMA&Product_Code=66773

In the older days you could just throw in a can and go.
But over the years just adding freon is getting harder to do.
Newer systems have to have the correct amount of freon down to the ounces.
Most will need pumped down and vacuumed down and the right and amount of oil and a set amount freon charge installed to get the air to cool right and the system to last.
If an air condition is low there is usually a leak that needs fixed and also a lose of lubricating oil from system.
Also air and moisture enters a low system
If you are going to try to do it get the proper type air condition gauge set with the low and high side gauges.
Hook up the gauges and get a reading with compressor running at idle and at 2000 rpm on the high and low side.
Post back pressure reading and we can help you.
MT

Ok have a 96 blazer 4.3 and just got back from a week vacation and all of a sudden the a/c is blowing hot. I have read a few other posts and think that I just need to recharge it but wanted some opinions before spending needed money. The a.c system was also replaced less then a year ago, any idea would be greatfull thanks. Mitch

Well first thing it needs checked out. Could be low on gas or a electrical problem.
Does the compresser run any or is the accumulator cold or frosting up?
Unless you are going to do it yourself have a good repair shop look at it.
And do not even think about one of them wal mart death kits.
Check my other post on them.
To check it yourself here is the first thing you will need.
http://www.ackits.com/merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=AMA&Product_Code=66773

If you can post back the low and high side pressure reading with compresser runing at idle and at 2000 RPM.
Mt

Wal Mart DEATH KITS

You cannot properly and safely recharge an air condition system with them.
Now that you mention it, I did have a problem with the pressure guage after putting in the first can, and though I didn't notice it then, they do add some kind of sealant to it. The only way I knew I didn't overcharge it was because the system was completely discharged before I started, and my system recommends 2.7 lbs. I will definitely check out the link in your post and I thank you for making me more informed on the subject. It's been 2 months and my AC is still freezing my balls off, but like you said, best to do it right the first time. Thanks for the advice.

Now that you mention it, I did have a problem with the pressure guage after putting in the first can, and though I didn't notice it then, they do add some kind of sealant to it. The only way I knew I didn't overcharge it was because the system was completely discharged before I started, and my system recommends 2.7 lbs. I will definitely check out the link in your post and I thank you for making me more informed on the subject. It's been 2 months and my AC is still freezing my balls off, but like you said, best to do it right the first time. Thanks for the advice.


You are welcome and glad it helped.
Them one hose stop and go gauges that come with them kits are not much.
10-4 Them fellows there will steer you in the right direction.
Not sure if you put stop leak in what it is going to do. Or if it is working good now wheather it would be better to leave it alone or flush it out
It is kinda like super glue when air hits it it gets messey.
You might run a post on .
http://www.autoacforum.com/
And see what they say about it.
Good luck MT.