AC recharge help

[fishhead65]

AC on my 2000 Montana has gone warm, don't see any obvious leaks. My friend has the coolant cylinder and says I just need to get the right attachment nozzle.

I see a port in the AC line right behind the radiator, front/center of the engine compartment. Is this the right place to re-charge? Is there a "low side" charge port? Should I put any "leak stop" product in first?

thanks

[don14026]

I have a '01 Montana that the AC got warm last year. The dealership quoted me $1000+ to fix.
From what you have said, you are in the same boat. The problem is the condensor is cracked along the bottom so adding a sealant and recharging yourself won't fix the problem. Sorry for the bad news.

[fishhead65]

well, I re-charged 6 days ago and have been using the AC very heavy since. So far the pressure is still between 40-45psi and the air is cold. We'll see how long it lasts.

Is the cracked condenser something thats easy to see from underneath the car?

Originally Posted by don14026

I have a '01 Montana that the AC got warm last year. The dealership quoted me $1000+ to fix.
From what you have said, you are in the same boat. The problem is the condensor is cracked along the bottom so adding a sealant and recharging yourself won't fix the problem. Sorry for the bad news.

[Cobber]

Originally Posted by fishhead65

Is the cracked condenser something thats easy to see from underneath the car?

This is something I think we all would like to know

[fishhead65]

Mine turned out to be a leaky condenser. There was an obvious wet oily spot on the lower left hand side of the unit. Had to be replaced for $600. I guess its very labor intensive to get the radiator out along with the condenser.

[GregA]

Originally Posted by fishhead65

Mine turned out to be a leaky condenser. There was an obvious wet oily spot on the lower left hand side of the unit. Had to be replaced for $600. I guess its very labor intensive to get the radiator out along with the condenser.

Mine was about $700.

If anyone wants to see where the leak was, click on the links below. The first one has the story and pictures when the problem was first detected, and the second has the final resolution, including before & after pictures.

AC Condenser Leak Detected

AC Condenser Replaced

Take Care,

[fishhead65]

Thanks GregA! So I'm not the only one! Another reason why I can't see myself buying another GM minivan again!