Subaru 2009 IMPREZA, Service Manual

Page: 2705 / 3619

AC-25
Refrigerant Leak Check
HVAC SYSTEM (HEATER, VENTILATOR AND A/C)
5. Refrigerant Leak Check
A: INSPECTION
1) Operate the A/C system for approx. 10 minutes,
and check that the high-pressure side shows at
least 690 kPa (7.03 kgf/cm
2
, 100 psi). Then stop
the engine to start the leak test.
2) Starting from the connection between high-pres-
sure pipe and evaporator, check the system for
leaks along the high-pressure side through the
compressor. The following items must be checked
thoroughly.
• Check the joint and seam between pressure
switch (triple pressure switch) and high-pressure
pipe.
• Check the connections between condenser and
pipes, and welded joints on the condenser.
NOTE:
The leak tester may detect the oil on the condenser
fins as a leak.
• Check the joint between compressor and hoses.
• Check the machined area of the compressor and
other joints on the compressor.
• Check the compressor shaft seal at the area
near the center of compressor clutch pulley.
NOTE:
Some shaft seals will show a slight amount of leak-
age, about 3 g (0.1 oz) per year. This is not a prob-
lem.
3) Starting from the connection between low-pres-
sure pipe and evaporator, check the system for
leakage along the low-pressure side through the
compressor. The following items must be checked
thoroughly.
• Connection between 2 parts
• Connection between pipe and plate
4) Visually check the rubber area of the flexible
hose for cracks. Check the entire length of the flex-
ible hose, especially the connection with the metal
hose end.
CAUTION:
Carefully check the external surface of hoses
and pipes at approx. 25 mm (0.98 in) per sec-
ond.
5) Disconnect the drain hose from the heater case,
and check the hose end for at least 10 seconds.
After the test is finished, reconnect the drain hose.
6) Turn the ignition switch to the ON, and run the
blower at high speed for approx. 1 minute. Stop the
blower to check the ventilation grille on the instru-
ment panel. While moving the tester closer to the
grille, run the blower for 1 or 2 seconds, then stop it.
Check the grille at that position for at least 10 sec-
onds.
7) Check the valve in the service port.
8) Visually check the rubber seal in the service port
cap.
AC-00035
(A) Flexible hose
AC-00036
(A)
AC-01885
AC-00038