2000 ECHO AC Hi/Lo pressure

[sixseas]

Hi Does anybody have the AC test procedure, vent temps and High and Low pressure by ambient temperature? I have a 2000 ECHO and will likely run it across the Mojave next month and want to make sure shes working at full capacity. I asked the local dealer they had no idea or wouldnt tell me. Thanks

[gator2764]

Got this right from the ALLDATA site, hope it helps some. Make sure you run a stong fan pointed right at your condensor when you check the system.


INSPECT REFRIGERANT VOLUME Observe the sight glass on the liquid tube. Test conditions:
Running engine at 1,500 rpm .
Blower speed control switch at "HI" position.
A/C switch ON .
Temperature control dial at "COOL" position.
Fully open the doors.

INSPECT REFRIGERANT PRESSURE WITH MANIFOLD GAUGE SET This is a method in which the trouble is located by using a manifold gauge set. Read the manifold gauge pressure when these conditions are established. Test conditions:
Temperature at the air inlet with the switch set at RECIRC is 30 - 50 °C (86 - 95 °F) .
Engine running at 1,500 rpm .
Blower speed control switch at "HI" position.
Temperature control dial on "COOL" position.
HINT: It should be noted that the gauge indications may vary slightly due to ambient temperature conditions

Normally functioning refrigeration system. Gauge reading: Low pressure side: 0.15 - 0.25 MPa (1.5 - 2.5 kg/Sq.cm) High pressure side: 1.37 - 1.57 MPa (14 - 16 kg/Sq.cm

[sixseas]

Thats music to my ears, a real big help to have the AC system to capacity when I hit the dessert temperatures, will dig in this week. Thanx Bob

[gator2764]

Been dealing with AC issues on my 92 tercel and 84 camry the last week. ALLDATA has been a big help. If you don't mind me asking, are you having problems with the AC in the car? if it is working right you shouldn't have to hook up to the system to check it out.

[sixseas]

I know what you mean I hate to fool with a system that is working and I probably shouldn’t. There are a couple reasons I’m going after it mostly piece of mind when I get in motion. I got the ECHO in Florida as a replacement for my 96 Tercel out in California. The ECHO has 54k was dealer serviced since new they did everything but no sign of an AC check. I seem to remember a good system can loose ½ once a year so figured after 10 years it maybe should be looked over. I can do it on this end in Illinois where I have gauges but once its put into service in California, AC work is expensive. Kind of thought the vent temp was a little high the other day at 60 but it was 93 humid and in the sun, looked at the site glass it looked lean to me. I maybe should look closer before opening the system but would like to get gauges on it. Just like to get any work out of the way on this end if possible but have shot myself in the foot doing this and creating more work.

The other reason is to keep everything going I have to be in good shape on the other end. The stretch between St George Utah, through Las Vegas, and out I-15 to the San Bernardino Mountains can be a roaster. I’ve seen temps up to 126f. Or to the south through Gila Bend Arizona and Imperial Valley with high humidity from dessert agriculture and 100+F can make for a long hot day. Without working AC or even worse a marginal system it can run you down for days after the drive.

[gator2764]

60 is a little bit high coming from the vent, unlees that is sitting at an idle.

[sixseas]

Thats what I thought and could just picture myself frying under the dessert sun. While I was working around here I put the ECHO in the shade at 82f mild humidity with vent set to recirculate, ran 5 minutes vent temp was 39f at curb idle. Site glass appeared full and flowing as normal. With a 43f drop in vent temp I dont think I should open that system right now. Maybe just got spooked when I saw the high vent temp the other day in the direct sun.