Recharging air conditioner on 1999 Forester

[wduzak]

I'm going to try and recharge air conditioner on my 99 Forester. I've looked at youtube videos and it looks pretty simple, but I did read a note about overcharging. Apparently if you only measure low-side pressure you can overfill. Is it necessary to measure high side as well? Any suggestions on kits? Looks like I can get them fairly cheap on ebay. Any tips or cautions? I'm not an idiot but I lack the mechanical skills and knowledge that most of the guys on this site have.

Thanks

[Fairtax4me]

Assuming the AC still works, but just isn't blowing cold, usually adding one 12oz can of refrigerant will bring it up to proper pressure and have it working again as it should. IIRC the refrigerant capacity on that year should be only about 15-19oz. If there's any question of how much to add, you can generally start with a half can, then monitor the center vent air temperature with an AC thermometer. (Couple $ on amazon) when the air temp is around 45-50°f you're pretty close to optimal charge level. Be sure it is set to recirculate with the fan on full speed.

 

 

If the AC has stopped working, generally adding one full 12oz can of refrigerant will get it to start working again, then you may need anywhere from 1/4-1/2 a can to get it to full charge level. Again, add refrigerant slowly and monitor the vent air temp and you'll get it pretty darn close.

[1 Lucky Texan]

lots of info here; http://www.subaruoutback.org/forums/99-do-yourself-illustrated-guides/43428-diy-c-air-conditioning-leak-refrigerant-repair-5-less-15-minutes-less.html

 

easiest is often as said above, (if repairs have been made and the systems is empty) put in the volume the system requires.

[wduzak]

Thanks very much both of you.

[Bushwick]

You can rent an AC charge kit from Auto Zone. It's technically "free" to rent as they only put a hold on your card until it's returned.

 

I had a hell of a time getting mine charged (95' Legacy) correctly and it's still finicky at times as it might be freezing the sensor (forget what it's called) behind the glove box. I suggest charging on a warm (not hot) day and cross your fingers it'll blow cold when temps are really hot. Other cars just top off and they go cold, not this one.