Directions: When it Comes to A/C Cans, NRDC Gives DIYers the Cold Shoulder
The NRDC argues that cross-contamination of refrigerant will be a problem in future A/C systems and is looking to keep the cans out of the hands of consumers.
Tech Tip: Subaru Excessive A/C System Pressures
If you experience a vehicle with excessive A/C system pressures, did you know you could quickly rule out these easy checks before making any component replacements?
Tech Tip: Mazda Experiences Vibration at Cruising Speeds (55 mph)
Some Mazda vehicles may experience a body vibration when driving approximately 55 mph. This symptom is due to the characteristics of the No. 3 and No. 4 engine mounts.
A/C Update: Risky Business
As you may know, the air conditioning compressors in many hybrid vehicles are operated by an electric motor instead of a drive belt. The motor’s insulated windings are immersed in the compressor’s lubricating oil. The oils used in these compressors are formulated to have high dielectric properties, that makes them non-conductive.
Tech Tip: Acura’s Battery is Dead, A/C Cools Poorly
If a 2007-2011 Acura MDX’s battery dies after the vehicle is parked for a short time or overnight, and/or the A/C system blows warm air, the A/C compressor clutch relay may be stuck closed. The A/C compressor may also be noisy and may be emitting refrigerant vapor from the relief valve.
ACDelco Makes it Easier to Look Up A/C Components
With the automotive air conditioning season heating up, ACDelco is enhancing its online air conditioning catalog so that users can locate all of the major A/C system components for a single vehicle on one screen. When the user identifies a vehicle, all of the needed A/C parts for the job are listed horizontally across the page, in a single look-up. The catalog also has been refreshed to include 2012 model year vehicles.
Directions: Issues on 1234yf Still Up in the Air
There has been a lot of talk about the new HFO-1234yf A/C refrigerant making its way into new vehicles. Some of the misconceptions and rumors about the refrigerant were addressed at the Mobile Air Conditioning Society Worldwide (MACS) convention and trade show in January. One of the biggest concerns techs and shop owners have is which vehicles will have the new system.
New A/C Machine Requirements for R-1234yf and Hybrid Vehicles
In case you haven’t heard, there is a new refrigerant coming called R-1234yf. The claims are it’s a much lower greenhouse gas than R-134a. As a shop owner who’s trying to stay ahead of the curve, I need to know what service equipment is needed, when it is needed and what it will cost.
AVI Offers ‘MACS A/C Quick Hits’ Class
Help your customers keep their cool with the latest in A/C service in the newly released “MACS A/C Quick Hits” class from Automotive Video! Since A/C systems are constantly being updated with new technology and service procedures, MACS instructor Paul DeGuiseppi goes in-depth to show you the latest techniques so you can quickly diagnose A/C repairs.
Update on Global Automotive Refrigerant Contamination
Last month, MACS and Neutronics issued a warning advising that all industries using R-134a refrigerant immediately test all cylinders thought to be virgin R-134a (including new 30 pound cylinders) due to reports of widespread contamination. Following that report, Ed Sunkin, editor of Underhood Service, contacted manufacturers and suppliers of automotive refrigerant to comment on this issue.
Final Days to Register for MACS 2012 Convention and Trade Show
Online registration and registration through the MACS office for MACS-I-MIZE! ENERGIZE!, the 32nd annual Mobile Air Conditioning Society (MACS) Convention and Trade Show, will continue until Friday, January 13, 2012.
Dangerous R-134a Contamination Found Worldwide
Neutronics, a provider of gas analysis and gas handling technologies, yesterday issued a warning distributed by the Mobile Air Conditioning Society, advising that all industries using R-134a refrigerant immediately test all cylinders thought to be virgin R-134a (including new 30 pound cylinders) due to reports of widespread contamination.