A/C question

[jasons]

I need to replace the A/C hoses on my 97 Tahoe. Does anyone know what oil and how much should be used in this system? I plan on flushing it while it's apart.

[speedygonzales]

I just did mine this past summer and if memory serves, it's 8 oz of SP-15 ACDelco 15-118. Get you another orifice tube.

[61_FL_Apache]

It should be PAG 150.

Not sure about amount, but I think its 4 oz.

[463]

here is what GM says:

Subject: Info - New PAG Oil Released #02-01-39-004B - (11/16/2005)




Models: 2006 and Prior GM Passenger Cars and Trucks (Including Saturn)


2003-2006 HUMMER H2


2006 HUMMER H3


2005-2006 Saab 9-7X


Built With R-134a Refrigeration System


All Air Conditioning Compressor Types (Excluding R4 and A6 Type Compressors)




This bulletin is being revised to change the PAG oil part number used for R4 and A6 compressors with R-134a refrigerant systems. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 02-01-39-004A (Section 01 -- HVAC).


All General Motors vehicles built with R-134a refrigerant systems shall now be serviced with GM Universal PAG Oil (excluding vehicles equipped with an R4 or A6 compressor).

R4 and A6 compressors with R-134a refrigerant systems shall use PAG OIL, GM P/N 12356151 (A/C Delco part number 15-118) (in Canada, use P/N 10953486).



GM Universal PAG Oil Part Numbers:


P/N

Description

Quantity


12378526

U.S. Part Number

6 pack of 8 oz. cartridges


88900060

Canadian / Saturn Part Number

6 pack of 8 oz. cartridges


88901445/10-5026

AC Delco Part Number

8 pack of 8 oz. cartridges



Important
The PAG oil referenced in this bulletin is formulated with specific additive packages that meet General Motors specifications and use of another oil may void the A/C systems warranty.

Use this new PAG oil when servicing the A/C system on the vehicles listed above. Oil packaged in an 8 oz tube should be installed using A/C Oil Injector, J 45037.

Refer to the HVAC Section of Service Information for detailed information on Oil Balancing and Capacities.



GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See your GM dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.
WE SUPPORT VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION


© Copyright General Motors Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

[speedygonzales]

Originally Posted by 463

GM P/N 12356151 (A/C Delco part number 15-118) (in Canada, use P/N 10953486).

Yeah thought so. Thanks for confirming it. And the amount is 8 Oz as confirmed by Sanden instructions.

BTW it's $18.40 on Amazon.

[61_FL_Apache]

When replacing the compressor, orifice and dryer, where is the oil added?

[463]

Use this new PAG oil when servicing the A/C system on the vehicles listed above. Oil packaged in an 8 oz tube should be installed using A/C Oil Injector, J 45037.
There speaking it this text of adding oil to a sealed pressurized A/C system, this is done thought the high pressure side of the system.

[speedygonzales]

Originally Posted by 61_FL_Apache

When replacing the compressor, orifice and dryer, where is the oil added?

If the compressor does NOT come filled, put only 5.5 Oz in it. No more.

Put the rest in the accumulator.

[61_FL_Apache]

Thanks! Does it matter which port on the accumulator?

[speedygonzales]

When I did mine, I put it in the one with the hoses, not the one with the switch.

[61_FL_Apache]

What is the truth in this video about replacing the condenser over flushing it?

Why Flushing AC Systems Does Not Work Anymore -...

[jerrymp]

My admittedly limited and untalented a/c replacement experience left me with the concept that the only way to redo an a/c system was to simply replace parts. So I have that prejudice. That being said, a 1997 truck probably has a heavier built condenser and thus a flush might have greater chances of success. But I found several places on the web where you can order a new condenser for under $100.00. I suppose that is the chinese stuff he was talking about. From where I am now, I would go with the replacement part. Its what I finally did with my 96 diesel. Wish I still had that truck.

[speedygonzales]

If the condenser does not have a problem, flush it. You might get away without flushing it if the orifice tube is clean. But if there is anything in the orifice tube, both the condenser and the evaporator have to be flushed. $10 and a compressor blow gun is all it takes.