J30 Air Conditioning Problems

[J30onDubz]

What is going on? My J30 was cold a few weeks back, then, now that it is hot as h*ll here, it won't seem to work. I added R134a and that seemed to not help. What should I check next?Compressor? Condenser? Lines?What are the main problems, and could I fix this myself??

Thanks for any helpJON

[Eswift]

i doubt any of the diagnostics or repair procedures are in your league.

first make sure the compressor kicks on when it should.

if it does,

the sytem and lines should then be emptied out (not vented!) and should have a pressure test done on them.

unless you have an R-134a recovery system and pressure disgnostic equipment, you wont be able to proceed.

you could use the old ultraviolet light trick to see if there is a big leak somewhere, but if i were you i would leave it to a professional. you can read through the service manual to learn in more detail the exact procedure.

[DAEDALUS]

You can get some R-134a gauges from most auto stores for probably $30-50. These will tell you the hi and lo-side pressures while the compressor is on and off. Proper numbers are in the manual and can also be found at http://www.epa.gov I think. UV works if the dye is already in the lines...added either under vacuum or via a pressurized can (oil or R-134a). If you have a bad relay or switch, you can probably DIY. If it's a bad compressor, you'll need to take it in.