rlx101

is there anything special about a/c system on '02-04 ES's? i recharged a/c in our '95 ES before, is it just the same? I got one of those recharging kits with the pressure gauge.

thanks!

JSM1284

What is your reason for wanting to recharge?

rlx101

with the temps up in the 90's here its not cooling fast enough. just want to add 1 can to see if it helps.

JSM1284

It is just the same.

rlx101

well i hooked up the refill kit to the low port and according to the pressure gauge its at 45psi so the system is full... hmmm. i do not want to overfill it.
also i noticed that the system has green dye in it already. Previous owner maintained the car at the dealer. Another thing I noticed - next to the high port there is a little transparent window built in line where you can see refrigirant cycling. What is it for??

If the freon pressure is fine what else can this be? any tests i can do before taking it to the mechanic?

JSM1284

The window is to see the refrigerant flowing in the system. Check the cabin air filter, it may be very dirty.

JSM1284

Also, make sure the condensor fan is coming on when you turn on the A/C.

GEORGE_JET

Also check the condensor fins, clean off any bugs or other debris.

rlx101

the cabin air filter was replaced recently. the fan does come on and i will check the fins.

I stuck the food grade thermometer into the a/c vent in the cabin and turned a/c on to the max cold. the temp went down to 62'F eventually (outside 87'F) but when its really hot (above 95'F) the a/c seems to struggle cooling..

GEORGE_JET

It should be doing better than that, my converted 93 is able to maintain 70 deg, easy with a ambient temp 100 and change. When you checked the pressure, were you slightly above idle? Say 1200 rpm or so.

rlx101

no, i checked the pressure @ ~700rpm or whatever is a normal idle rate.

DoktorYes

I hope you guys are checking the Temp., inside the cabin. Because when I put a Electric temp. gauge in the vent I get 40'F, with temp outside in the High 90's.and that's on medium speed.If you guys are getting temp., of 60's&70's with gauge inside the ac vent something is not right.94 LS400, over 100,000 miles. rix 101 you are right do not overfill; it will not cool properly.Also, I drive in HOT New Mexico.