For A/C experts: They still can't find a problem!
08-11-02, 11:50 PM
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For A/C experts: They still can't find a problem!
Okay, I had my A/C charged at the end of April. It stopped blowing cold about two weeks ago. I took it back to them and told them I need the problem fixed. They called me back a couple of hours later and said they couldn't find anything wrong. They apparently ran some dye through there and none leaked out. So they just charged it again and said if it stops blowing cold again bring it in again.
Some clarifications: I have a '91 N/A with 118.700 miles on the original engine. When I say "they" I'm refering to Firestone. I know, I know...what am I doing there? I figure the A/C system is universal enough for the flunkies there to figure things out. Plus, it's walking distance from my house.
My question: Is this a symptom of a component in the A/C system that may be on its way to failure? Is there any more complete way of diagnosing a problem like this?
Thanks for your expertise.
Some clarifications: I have a '91 N/A with 118.700 miles on the original engine. When I say "they" I'm refering to Firestone. I know, I know...what am I doing there? I figure the A/C system is universal enough for the flunkies there to figure things out. Plus, it's walking distance from my house.
My question: Is this a symptom of a component in the A/C system that may be on its way to failure? Is there any more complete way of diagnosing a problem like this?
Thanks for your expertise.
08-12-02, 09:31 AM
#3
RX-7 Bad Ass
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All you're looking at is a very slow leak - these can be really tricky to find, and are probably the most common cause for AC system failure in a 2nd gen.
First off, go to a *good* AC shop. I wouldn't trust Firestone to fix a Hot Wheels car - you're getting bottom of the barrel mechanics there.
A good shop typically will have advanced leak detection techniques - freon sniffers and the like.
There are quite a few places for the system to leak. On NA's, I've seen many with a hole rubbed in the AC hard line that goes on the firewall where the cruise control cable rubbed a hole. Other common problems are the o-rings on the compressor where the line mounts to the compressor. The evaporator (the part in the dash) will sometimes get leaks from trash hitting the fins and tearing a hole. Same goes for the condensor - the part in front of the radiator.
You can always just get it recharged every so often, but that gets pricey quick.
2nd gens really have a good AC system - when it's working right, it will FREEZE you out of the car. It's a shame more people won't take the time to learn about the system and instead just rip it out. I don't use my AC all the time, but my girlfriend won't ride in my car without the AC going, period. Not to mention it doesn't look good when you show up for a date with big sweat stains going saying how nice your RX-7 is. Makes the car look like a beater.
Anyhow, rant off. Good luck on the AC!
Dale
First off, go to a *good* AC shop. I wouldn't trust Firestone to fix a Hot Wheels car - you're getting bottom of the barrel mechanics there.
A good shop typically will have advanced leak detection techniques - freon sniffers and the like.
There are quite a few places for the system to leak. On NA's, I've seen many with a hole rubbed in the AC hard line that goes on the firewall where the cruise control cable rubbed a hole. Other common problems are the o-rings on the compressor where the line mounts to the compressor. The evaporator (the part in the dash) will sometimes get leaks from trash hitting the fins and tearing a hole. Same goes for the condensor - the part in front of the radiator.
You can always just get it recharged every so often, but that gets pricey quick.
2nd gens really have a good AC system - when it's working right, it will FREEZE you out of the car. It's a shame more people won't take the time to learn about the system and instead just rip it out. I don't use my AC all the time, but my girlfriend won't ride in my car without the AC going, period. Not to mention it doesn't look good when you show up for a date with big sweat stains going saying how nice your RX-7 is. Makes the car look like a beater.
Anyhow, rant off. Good luck on the AC!
Dale
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