How To Install an Automobile Air Conditioning Cycling Sensor
Summer is here, and it’s hot! A long commute to the office without a working air conditioner makes for a tough start to the day. The pressure cycling switch is responsible for preventing the formation of ice on the core of the evaporator. Replacement of a manfunctioning switch is within reach for the moderate repair person.
- Remove the refrigerant currently in your car’s AC system. Accomplishing this will require some fairly expensive equipment, so you may need to take your car to a local repair shop and have them do it. There are also considerations under the Federal Clean Air Act in the process.
- Review the manual for your car in order to locate the pressure cycling switch. Unscrew the existing switch, and then screw on the new switch. While replacing the switch, ensure that you also install the new rubber o-ring.
- Ensure that the AC gauge set is connected to the service ports on the car’s AC system. Turn on the vacuum pump after attaching it to the service hose on the gauge set. The pump should run continuously for about an hour so that the system can be emptied of all moisture.
- Disconnect the vacuum pump after closing all service valves on the gauge set. The gauge set should come with a can tap. Install the can tap, and then attach a can of refrigerant.
- Open the blue service valve on the gauge set and the refrigerant can. The pressure from the can should partially fill the system. Once the system is partially filled start the vehicle and set the internal controls to the maximum AC setting.
- Once the first can of refrigerant is empty, the service valve should be closed. Attach another can to the tap, and then open the valve. Continue to repeat these steps until the AC system is full of refrigerant. The car manual should provide you with specifications for capacity.
- Ensure that all of the valves on the gauge set area closed. Turn off your car’s engine, and then disconnect the gauge set.