Ever recharged your car's AC?

[swee'pea99]

If so, d'you know whether the blue thing is a cap that needs to be removed for the brass bit to engage?

I was expecting the brass bit to just screw onto the can, but the thread isn't quite engaging. It feels like it would if the blue 'cap' was removed to expose a thread underneath, but it doesn't screw off easily (by hand) and I'm loath to start levering it off with a screwdriver for obvious reasons. Anyone been here before? Thanks if you can help.

 

[Cycleops]

Looks to me as if that is some sort if capping on top. I should use small screwdriver to tentatively prise it up at the edges to see what it reveals. If not removed I don't see how it can ever connect to the brass fitting.

 

[fossyant]

Are you using the correct end of the 'hose' ?

 

[Threevok]

I concur.

That looks like there should be a pin inside the hose mounting, that punctures the blue disc on installation

Check the other end of the hose

 

[swee'pea99]

Thanks. It's definitely the right end - the 'peg' like thing you can see at about 9 o clock is one end of a screw-in tap to puncture the seal. I suspect cyclops is right, but I'll wait in case anyone knows for sure before prising anything off a super-pressurised can! However tentatively!

 

[biggs682]

I always let the experts do mine as tried on e of those tin recharge kits years ago and had nothing but hassle afterwards

 

[Garry A]

I fancy doing this too as my AC is done. Where did you get the kit?

 

[screenman]

I take it you have fixed the leak, before you start filling or trying to fill it up. In my humble it is a job for a pro, but I wish you luck anyway.

 

[fossyant]

There are a few on Amazon, but you could be throwing your money away if you've got a leak. The only times mine went was leaks - holed radiator and a cracked pipe - the pipe was easy to spot as the dye had come out.

 

[KneesUp]

Plenty of places do a re-gas for £50, and that includes a pressure check. The DIY approach doesn't seem any cheaper?

 

[derrick]

If so, d'you know whether the blue thing is a cap that needs to be removed for the brass bit to engage?

View attachment 478787

I was expecting the brass bit to just screw onto the can, but the thread isn't quite engaging. It feels like it would if the blue 'cap' was removed to expose a thread underneath, but it doesn't screw off easily (by hand) and I'm loath to start levering it off with a screwdriver for obvious reasons. Anyone been here before? Thanks if you can help.

You need a vacumn pump to completely discharge the system before refilling it.

 

[Drago]

Plenty of places do a re-gas for £50, and that includes a pressure check. The DIY approach doesn't seem any cheaper?

My nearest place is £35 for an empty, dry, and refil with the correct refrigerant and oil. Used them once and they were very, very good. That said, it's brave and commendable to attempt a DIY top up, and I'm interested to see how it goes.

 

[Globalti]

*loud explosion and swee'pea99 is last seen heading into orbit*

 

[Dave7]

I am with @KneesUp and @Drago on that. Top up every 3-5 years??
Just had Mrs Ds car done. £59.00. Amazing difference, money well spent imo.

 

[classic33]

Is it a left-handed thread?