High pressure AC line leak

[edwinn]

I have a high-pressure AC line in the 97 Riviera that's leaking refrigerant at the valve fitting threads. Here's a diagram of the system from a local dealer with the area highlighted:




Since the tube assembly is NLA (no longer available) I'll need to find a replacement such as NOS (new-old-stock) or from a boneyard.

Here are pics of the leaking fitting.








Could the existing line be repaired? by an automotive or AC company?


-Ed

[edwinn]

This issue has been solved!!

The Riviera was driven across the U.S. from Virginia to California in 4-1/2 day (3,029 miles) without any problems. Yes that's an average of 673 mi/day. It's a great vehicle for traveling. Only some motor oil was added. Trip mileage typically 27-1/2 to 28-1/2 MPG depending on terrain.


-Ed

[brcidd]

There is an o-ring in that connection that is replaceable...after system discharge.

[edwinn]

Originally Posted by brcidd

There is an o-ring in that connection that is replaceable...after system discharge.

Thanks for the reply. The tube assy is NLA anywhere. There's a Delco fitting which is used to "repair" that service port which the mechanic tried but it didn't work. They had to remove the entire tube and grind the face of the port flat (look carefully at the photo above - the hex points were digging into the fitting chamfer.) They most likely replace the o-ring and recharged. It was in the shop from Thurs 8 AM till Monday afternoon. They wanted to keep it over the weekend to check for leaks. After driving cross-country it's still tight.

-Ed

[edwinn]

An update on the AC high-side fitting leak.

The guys at Chandler Automotive in Sterling VA did a great job repairing the aluminum tube (that was NLA) with their AC expertise and machining capabilities. During a routine travel break and engine oil check at an I-70 rest stop east of Kansas City last March (GPS coords: 39.004798°, -93.850343°) I notice some "green stuff" around the fitting and called Chandler on the cell phone. Mike himself took the call and explained it was only residue from charging the system. He was right and the AC has been working great since then!

Photo of high-side port taken yesterday 5/26/2012.




So the original line which they had to disassemble and remove, grind and rework is still in place.


-Ed

[edwinn]

Have put the finishing touches on the A/C repair job over the weekend by adding 1/2" split loom over the high-side tubing. The photo below is presented to keep it brief.



Also added loom to the A/C wiring on and around the compressor in the lower front of engine compartment. I'd say that CarQuest loom is better than NAPA brand, but either will do the job.


This job is a wrap!!


-Ed