944 A/C experts...

FIA-F1 · 09-06-2001, 07:49 AM

I have located the refrigerant leak on my '90 S2 cab to be from the compressor. I can actually see the neon green bubbling out slowly when the engine is running. According to Griffith's web site, the OEM on the compressor is a Nippondenso with a 4-ear mount. The leak itself appears to come from the top of the compressor but my view is obstructed so I can't tell if it's a hose connection or a seam where a connector plate is bolted to the compressor. I'd have to take components off to narrow it down. Can any of you guys that have knowledge of what I'm dealing with here tell me more before I proceed further?

Lawrence Coppari · 09-06-2001, 08:07 AM

Sorry, can't help. My AC is on the fritz also but I have a clutch problem.

What is your favorite F1 team?

ch944 · 09-06-2001, 08:12 AM

Get in there with on of those mechanics mirrors so you can see what is going on. If you disconnect things you might not get a fix on the actual leak.

Scott R · Scott R's Garage

Yes there is a connection plate. If your facing the front of the compressor it's on the top right. It's the connection plate for the barrier hoses to the comrpessor. There are two A/C specific O-rings that keep that seal tight. If it's leaking from there it's an easy fix. The rings are about $2. But the evac and recharge are sometimes costly. The other common compressor leak is the compressor front main seal.

FIA-F1 · 09-06-2001, 10:40 AM

ok, just bought the mirror today. Scott, can I tighten the plate first to test for leakage or is it likely the seal is leaking? Also, if I replace the seal, am I dealing with the low side pressure so it simply is a matter of replacing the refrigerant or is there some high pressure involved I need to be aware/cautious of? The seal can be purchased from the dealer?
As for F1 team - I like Michael but haven't always been his fan - I think he's earned his credentials and today, I believe he's the best. Mika is my second favorite, Jacques my third.

Scott R · Scott R's Garage

You can tighten it but I doubt that it will work. The O rings can be purchased from a NAPA or on line at www.acsource.com. These o-rings shrink and break down over time. This next part your aren't going to like either. If you open the system to change the hoses you will also want to spend the extra $19 or $20 for a new receiver dryer and O rings that couple that to the barrier hoses. Then you will need to vac the system down and recharge it.