Refrigerant Leak Check: Notes

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 10 other vehicles, including the 2009 Honda S2000, 2008 Honda S2000, 2007 Honda S2000, 2006 Honda S2000, and 2005 Honda S2000. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special Tools Required

Leak detector YGK-H-10PM
Leak detector HLD-100
Leak detector TIFZX-1, or commercially available OPTIMAX Jr. A/C Leak Detection Kit (TRP124893)

These tools are available through the Honda Tool and Equipment Program; call 888-424-6857

CAUTION:

Air conditioning refrigerant or lubricant vapor can irritate your eyes, nose, or throat.
Be careful when connecting service equipment.
Do not breathe refrigerant or vapor.

NOTE:

If accidental system discharge occurs, ventilate the work area before resuming service.
Additional health and safety information may be obtained from the refrigerant and lubricant manufacturers.
Check the system for leaks using an R-134a refrigerant leak detector with an accuracy of 14 g (0.5 oz) per year or better.

Leak Detector Usage Tips (Refer to the Operator's Manual for complete operating instructions):

Position the vehicle in a wind-free work area. This will aid in detecting small leaks.
When using the leak detector for the first time, allow it to warm up for 2 minutes with the probe in a clean atmosphere. This lets the temperature sensor in the detector stabilize.
The calibration check should be done in the "Search 2" mode. Once that is done, the other check modes do not need calibrating.
When leak checking through the HVAC module drain hose, avoid drawing water into the probe. Water can damage the internal pump and sensor.
Avoid creasing the flexible probe extension. Creases can restrict air flow and give false readings.
Because the detector recalibrates itself for ambient gases, it may be necessary to move the detector away from the leak to clear the sensor. Once the sensor has cleared, recheck the suspected leak.
When removing the clear probe tip, be careful not to lose the flow ball.
R-134a is heavier than air; always check below and to the sides of all potential leak sources.
Halogen leak detectors are sensitive to chemicals: windshield washing solutions, solvents/cleaners, and some vehicle adhesives. Keep these chemicals out of the area when doing leak detection.