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.
Behr Puts Vehicles to the Test in Climatic Wind Tunnel
Who knew it would be 110 degrees in mid-October in Troy,
MI? With nearly 45 percent humidity, that was the temperature inside the climatic wind tunnel at Behr’s North American headquarters. It’s where Behr brutalizes vehicles under simulated blaring sunlit conditions to see how well air conditioning systems will perform and how well HVAC systems will cooperate with engine cooling components.
Lexus RX 330 – Moaning Sound Heard at 1,100-1,400 RPM
Some 2004-’06 RX 330 owners may experience a moan noise heard at 1,100 rpm to 1,400 rpm with the A/C on. Applicable Vehicles: 2004-’06 model year RX 330 vehicles. Repair Procedure: 1. Verify the customer concern. a. Start the engine. b. Turn on the A/C. c. Hold the engine rpm between 1,100-1,400.
MACS Publishes New Mobile A/C Textbook
Proper education and training is the key to successful service and repair. To meet the training needs of the industry, the Mobile Air Conditioning Society (MACS) Worldwide is proud to introduce its new textbook, Modern Automotive HVAC Systems.
Registration is Now Open for MACS 2012 Convention and Trade Show
Registration is now open for MACS-I-MIZE! ENERGIZE!, the 32nd annual Mobile Air Conditioning Society (MACS) Convention and Trade Show.
Tech Tip: Acura A/C Compressor is Not Working
The A/C compressor on a 2005 Acura RL 3.5L is not working. The scan tool reads A/C compressor “ON” and the A/C compressor clutch relay does click.
Tech Tip: Nissan Low Airflow from HVAC Front Air Vents
If you confirm one of the above vehicles has low airflow coming from the HVAC front air vents due to evaporator freeze-up, and the HVAC unit surface temperature around the evaporator is about 32 degrees Fahrenheit, causing ice to form on the evaporator, follow the Service Procedure in this Tech Tip, which involves replacing the intake sensor with P/N 27700-ZC00A.
Tool Tip: BMW A/C System Leak Testing Procedure Update
The customer complains of poor or no air conditioning cooling. After further diagnosis, the system is found to be low or empty of a refrigerant charge, but when using an electronic leak detector, no leak can be found. Before replacing parts, perform a nitrogen leak test to confirm the location of the leak.