Gaskets and seals are used to provide a leak barrier for the lines, hoses, and the many other parts of the AC system. The person repairing the AC system should always replace the seals and gaskets every time a connection is opened for any reason. It is crucial to use the correct repair technique when replacing gaskets and seals to prevent leaks.
O-rings are often used to seal the various components of the AC system together. Black-colored O-rings were used on older systems that used cally green in color. There are some R12. Systems that use R134a used an improved O-ring style that is typically green in color. There are some key points to follow when replacing improved O-ring style that is typi-O-rings on the AC system.
Black O-rings are available in many sizes and should be carefully chosen. These O-rings were commonly used on R12 AC systems, but the green O-rings were needed for R134a systems because they are more resistant to deterioration from the PAG oil used in R134a
Green O-rings are available in many sizes and thicknesses. It is important to make sure that the exact size O-ring is installed in each connection. If the wrong O-ring is installed on an AC system, the refrigerant will leak at that
1. Carefully remove the old O-ring using a pick or similar tool.
2. Inspect the sealing area for burrs and sharp edges. Use a fine emery cloth to smooth out any blemishes that are found.
A pick or similar tool is needed to assist in removing the O-rings from lines and hoses. The O-rings should be removed without cutting or damaging to make it easier to match up with the new
The O-ring grooves need to be closely inspected after removing the old seals. If any burrs are found in the O-ring grooves and flanges, then the area can be cleaned up with some fine emery cloth. Be sure to clean the groove area thoroughly before installing the new
3. Find the exact size of replacement O-ring. Extra care should be used to choose the O-ring’s exact diameter and thickness to ensure the system will not leak in the future.
The old O-rings should be paired with the replacement items to make sure the fit is exact. The diameter and thickness must be exactly the same as the original O-rings. Using the wrong size of O-ring will cause a refrigerant leak in the AC
4. Carefully install the new O-rings into place.
The new O-rings need to be carefully installed onto the line, paying close attention to not cut or damage the surface of the O-ring. Typically, this process can be completed by using the fingers and rolling each one into
5. Install a small amount of refrigerant oil on each O-ring.
After the new O-rings are fitted into their grooves, a little PAG refrigerant oil should be added to each one. The oil needs to be spread over the whole surface of the O-ring to assist in the sealing properties of the
6. Reassemble the connection using the proper technique to ensure a tight and secure connection. See the steps previously on repairing quick-connectstyle couplings as well as repairing bolted-style couplings.
