Tech Tip: Checking of Sealant in Mobile A/C Systems Can Help Prevent Damage to Service Equipment and Loss of Warranty – UnderhoodService

Tech Tip: Checking of Sealant in Mobile A/C Systems Can Help Prevent Damage to Service Equipment and Loss of Warranty

Neutronics Refrigerant Analysis has issued a service advisory to all automotive and fleet technicians to check for the presence of sealant in mobile A/C systems before attempting service or repair. If the sealant is not detected beforehand, it can ....

Neutronics Refrigerant Analysis, a leading manufacturer of Automotive A/C service technology, has issued a service advisory to all automotive and fleet technicians to check for the presence of sealant in mobile A/C systems before attempting service or repair. If the sealant is not detected beforehand, it can potentially damage the shop’s refrigerant identifiers and refrigerant recovery equipment. Neutronics offers a simple, but unique kit that can help technicians to quickly and easily detect the presence of sealant.

Peter Coll, Refrigerant Analysis Division manager, notes, “Our QuickDetect A/C Sealant Detection Kit is an exclusive innovation that helps protect A/C service equipment against sealant damage. It is an indispensable tool that every technician should use to check a mobile A/C system before attempting any repair, refrigerant ID, or refrigerant recovery work.”

Sealants Can Void Warranty
Sealants are routinely added into mobile A/C systems by professional technicians and vehicle owners, alike, as a temporary repair for leaks. However, these sealants can damage A/C service equipment by solidifying in solenoids and tubing. In many cases, the manufacturers of A/C components and service equipment are voiding warranties in instances where damage has been caused by A/C sealant.

Unique, Simple-to-Use Design
Neutronics’ QuickDetect kit includes an A/C coupler, hose, test cartridge and flow meter, and works on a very basic principle. When connected to the A/C system, it is designed to mimic a refrigerant leak. If sealant is present in the system, it will quickly solidify in the test cartridge and cause the flow meter to show "no flow." Except for the low-cost test cartridges, which are disposable, all of the QuickDetect components are reusable. Additional cartridges are available separately.

Neutronics’ QuickDetect kit, Model No. ACSD, works with both R-134A and R-12 systems and comes with everything needed for a quick and easy test, (10) test cartridges, R-134A and R-12 couplers, a test hose, flow meter, syringe and detailed instructions in a custom molded carrying case. Replacement cartridges are available separately in a 25-piece package, Model No. ACSD-25.

The QuickDetect kit and replacement parts are available from most tool and equipment distributors as well as NAPA stores, nationwide.

For additional information, contact Peter Coll, Refrigerant Analysis Division manager, Neutronics Inc., 456 Creamery Way, Exton, PA 19341, (610) 524-8800 or toll-free (800) 378-2287; e-mail [email protected] or visit www.refrigerantid.com.

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