How to Refill Automotive Cooling Oil?
3 Answers
Automotive cooling oil refilling method: 1. For air conditioning systems, first evacuate the refrigeration system; 2. Use a graduated measuring cup to add the required amount of refrigeration lubricating oil; 3. Connect the manifold gauge to the air conditioning system, detach the low-pressure hose from the gauge assembly and immerse it in the cooling oil, while keeping the high-pressure hose connected to the high-pressure service valve and the center hose connected to the vacuum pump; 4. Start the vacuum pump and open the high-pressure manual valve to draw the cooling oil into the compressor. Precautions for refilling automotive cooling oil: 1. Do not mix cooling oils of different brands; 2. Cooling oil readily absorbs moisture and, in the presence of oxygen, can form acidic substances resembling oleic acid that corrode metal components, so always tighten the cap immediately after use; 3. Do not use deteriorated cooling oil; 4. Cooling oil does not provide refrigeration and can hinder heat exchanger efficiency, so never use excessive amounts to avoid reducing cooling capacity.
Adding car cooling oil (actually coolant) requires caution. I've done it myself a few times before. First, park the car on level ground and wait at least an hour for the engine to cool completely—opening it when too hot can cause burns. Locate the expansion tank or radiator cap, which may have min and max markings; the fluid level should be between these when the engine is cold. Use a cloth to twist open the cap to prevent splashing, then pour in new coolant. It's best to use the same brand and color, as mixing different types can damage the system. Pour slowly to avoid overflow. After adding, start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes, then check if the fluid level stabilizes before tightening the cap. Regularly checking the fluid level and replacing it every two years can prevent engine overheating and save on repair costs. Aging or leaking coolant should be addressed promptly to avoid breakdowns. Doing it yourself is straightforward, but wear gloves to protect against chemical irritation.
The coolant replenishment process is relatively straightforward. After the engine cools down, locate the expansion tank or radiator cap, unscrew it, and top up if the fluid level is low. Always use the manufacturer-recommended coolant formulated for your specific vehicle model - never substitute with plain water as it compromises boiling point and antifreeze performance. Pour slowly and steadily to prevent air pockets from disrupting circulation. After restarting the engine to operating temperature, recheck the level stability. Since the cooling system serves as critical engine protection, improper fluid addition may cause corrosion or clogging, reducing efficiency. We recommend quarterly coolant inspections, especially during seasonal transitions. Frequent level drops indicate potential leaks requiring professional diagnosis. Maintaining system cleanliness prevents overheating complications.
