Possible A/C leak?

2004 FORD F-450
218,900 MILES • 6.8L • V10 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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SAM MUSSELMAN
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I recently tried to put A/C in my truck. The A/C canister gauge said it was full, gauge was in the red but the air coming out is hot. Since the air is blowing, do I have a A/C leak or is the A/C clutch bad or is it both?
Jul 17, 2023 at 6:18 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

Is the A/C compressor engaging or cycling on and off? Also, if there is pressure showing on the gauge, it doesn't sound like there is a leak. However, what was in the "red:"? That could indicate overcharging.

If you feel a leak is possible, the best thing to do is vacuum the system and see if it holds a vacuum. Here is a link that you may find of interest. The link explains how to vacuum and recharge the system. It discusses checking for leaks while it holds a vacuum.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/re-charge-an-air-conditioner-system

Let me know if that helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,

joe

Jul 17, 2023 at 9:25 PM
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SAM MUSSELMAN
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The gauge on the A/C bottle went to red when I put in on the low-pressure valve. I guess then it’s overcharged. I tried bleeding it with a little tool I have but even after bleeding it and then measuring it again, the A/C gauge on the refill bottle was still in the red. What could the issue be?
Jul 18, 2023 at 4:29 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi Sam, it could be a few things. Is it in the red with the engine running and AC on? What we really need to do is get manifold gauges, so we know the actual pressure on both the high and low sides. There is a chance the gauge on what you have isn't good.

Are you able to access such gauges?

Let me know.

Joe
Jul 18, 2023 at 9:00 PM
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SAM MUSSELMAN
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I believe I can get access to those gauges. Yes, the gauge on the A/C canister was in the red while the engine was running. Also, it’s worth noting that the usual green cap that indicates the low pressure, the A/C canister connector didn’t fit properly or at least wouldn’t lock down to make a good fit to get a PSI reading. So, hopefully I’m not connecting it to the wrong port. To verify, do you have a diagram of the low pressure line for my vehicle?
Jul 18, 2023 at 9:31 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi:

If it didn't fit properly, that could be why the gauge is maxed. As far as the low-pressure line, I can't find a picture. However, the low-pressure line will be physically larger in diameter than the high pressure.

Let me know.

Joe
Jul 18, 2023 at 10:12 PM
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SAM MUSSELMAN
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The A/C compressor is bad. the clutch wasn’t turning with the belt it would spin and then stop then spin and stop so it’s bad.
Jul 22, 2023 at 5:57 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

It sounds like the compressor is locked-up. Or, the belt is loose, but I feel confident that is something you checked.

Regardless, I don't know if you need them, but I attached directions for removing and replacing the A/C compressor. See pics below.

Let me know if that helps or if you have questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
Jul 22, 2023 at 9:43 PM