LEMON Manuals: Even more car manuals for everyone
Home >> Chrysler >> 2000 >> Intrepid Base >> Repair and Diagnosis >> Heating, Ventilation & A/C (HVAC) >> HVAC Control Systems >> HVAC System - Automatic >> System Tests >> A/C System Charge Level Test >> Manifold Gauge Set Method

Manifold Gauge Set Method

  1. Attach clamp-on thermocouple to liquid line, as close to condenser outlet as possible. Attach manifold gauge set to high-side and low-side connectors.
  2. Set parking brake, and place transaxle in Park position. Start engine and allow to idle. Set A/C controls to outside air, panel mode, full cool, and high blower speed. Turn A/C on, and open windows. Operate system for a few minutes to allow system to stabilize.
  3. Place cardboard over front grille area, to block airflow through part of condenser, to set A/C pressure to 260 psi (18.3 kg/cm2 ). This will stop cooling fans from alternating speeds and maintain constant pressure.
  4. Record temperature reading at liquid line and discharge pressure reading on gauges. Compare readings with values in REFRIGERANT CHARGE LEVEL  table.
  5. Depending on system charge condition, corrections are made 2 ounces at a time. Each time a correction is made, recheck readings to ensure proper charge after system has stabilized. Total system refrigerant capacity is 28 ounces.
REFRIGERANT CHARGE LEVEL

Liquid Line Temp. - °F (°C) (1) Discharge Pressure - psi (kg/cm2 )
40 (4.4) 53-75 (3.7-5.3)
60 (15.6) 81-104 (5.7-7.3)
80 (26.7) 111-142 (7.8-10.0)
100 (37.8) 156-194 (11.0-13.6)
120 (48.9) 208-259 (14.6-18.2)
140 (60.0) 272-331 (19.1-23.3)
160 (71.1) 353-420 (24.8-29.5)
180 (82.2) 447-516 (31.4-36.3)
(1) When pressure is lower than specified, system is undercharged. When pressure is higher than specified, system is overcharged.