A/C // Rad Issues
 

Heeeeeey guuuuuuys...

I recently found out my cars radiator had a leak in it (smelled antifreeze, went to dealer). I bought the rad and coolant off the dealer, and did the work myself. I'm no mechanic, but I followed the Moshimoto guide.. except using a stock radiator. Everything went pretty well....except..:sigh:

I accidentally loosened the a/c discharge bolt, releasing refrigerant until I was able to tighten it back up :(. I didn't think much of it, figured I would have to recharge, so I did.

As I was recharging, I heard a leak. I took the front end of my car back off, assuming it was coming from the discharge bolt.. sure enough it was. I would add a little refrigerant, and could feel it leaking around the bolt. I took the bolt completely off and an o-ring crumbled into my hand, broken. I'm assuming that this is the problem.

So, does anyone know if this is a common o-ring carried at your local auto parts store, and if so, does anyone happen to have a parts number? I'm really hoping it's something I can snag tomorrow and just take a day off work (because I'm lazy). :thanks:

From looking at the parts diagrams (see: https://www.subarupartsdepot.com/par...iagram=7610075), it seems as though Subaru does not sell the o-rings, bolts, and other ancillary components for the AC system independent of larger component groups. Unless someone else chimes in with experience working on Subaru HVAC systems, I would imagine your best bet would be to head to either your local parts store, or the Subaru dealer, and see if they stock the individual components. Perhaps removing the discharge tube assembly entirely would help clarify your situation, especially to a local parts store clerk?

My limited experience with AC systems is that auto parts stores often supply a complete gasket rebuild kit for the whole system. You may be stuck purchasing this in the place of an isolated gasket.

Maybe this would work: http://www.jcwhitney.com/gpd-direct-...&skuId=9550748

This seems to be a semi-universal kit sold at Autozone, from my brief Google search.

Now that the system has been opened to the atmosphere, under no circumstances should you attempt DIY charge. Repair maybe, but the system must be completely evacuated to remove every last bit of air/moisture before charging. Unless you have a real vacuum pump and know how to do this, forget it. Take it to a pro.

Yep, what @Ultramaroon says.

An AC system is pretty darn touchy and needs a professional with the right equipment to service it properly. Plus, they will have the correct gasket (O ring).

Yep, that's expensive, but, worth it in the long run.


humfrz

As long as the system remained pressurized, air or moisture can not migrate into the system. Only if the system was fully discharged and no positive pressure remains in the system is there a risk of contamination.

I had this issue happen when a bunch of friends were working on the car installing a turbo kit.

Sure enough it's carried at your typical auto parts store. Like it's been said before, get an AC professional to fill it up, well worth the cost (around $100), to ensure the compressor lives a long, moisture free life. :w00t:

Thanks for all of the advice guys!

I went to a local dealer and grabbed an o-ring. I did the repair myself, and I plan on taking the car into the dealer to have the AC system tested and filled.

One stupid mistake.

Unfortunately it did not, I had to remove the bolt to repair the o-ring :(