How to Add Refrigerant Oil to a Car Air Conditioner?
2 Answers
There are two methods for adding refrigerant oil: the direct pouring method and the vacuum suction method. The direct pouring method involves pouring the refrigerant oil from a clean measuring bottle directly into the compressor's plug port. This method is suitable when replacing the evaporator, condenser, or receiver-drier. The vacuum suction method is as follows: 1. First, evacuate the system to 100kPa. 2. Prepare a measuring cup with graduations and fill it with slightly more refrigerant oil than the required amount. 3. Close the high-pressure manual valve and the auxiliary valve, then disconnect the high-pressure hose from the manifold gauge set and insert it into the measuring cup. 4. Open the auxiliary valve to allow the oil to be sucked into the system from the measuring cup. 5. When the oil level reaches the specified mark, immediately close the auxiliary valve. 6. Reconnect the hose to the manifold gauge set, open the high-pressure manual valve, start the vacuum pump, and first evacuate the high-pressure hose, then open the auxiliary valve to evacuate the system.
I've tried adding refrigerant oil to the car air conditioning system myself a few times, and it doesn't seem too complicated but requires careful attention. Preparing the right tools is crucial – you'll need a vacuum pump, manifold gauge set, and a dedicated refrigerant oil refill kit. You also need to confirm the oil type matches the system, commonly PAG oil. The steps include first connecting to the low-pressure service port, using the vacuum pump to remove moisture and air for about half an hour until the negative pressure stabilizes. Then, slowly inject the appropriate amount of oil through the refill tube – too much can clog the system. After adding the oil, top up with refrigerant. I spent a few hundred on tools, which is cheaper than taking it to a shop, but you must ensure a clean environment to avoid contamination. Regularly checking the oil level can extend the compressor's life. I recommend watching online video tutorials before attempting. Wear gloves for protection, and if there's any system leakage, fix it first or your effort will be wasted.
